From Forgotten Community to Beacon of Innovation: Bleamezado Steps Into the AI Era
In Bleamezado, a small farming community tucked within the Anloga Municipality of the Volta Region, history was made when StarOil Ghana Limited unveiled the first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) Smart Lab in the Volta and Oti Regions. Once known for its deprivation and lack of opportunity, Bleamezado has now become the face of Ghana’s rural innovation story — a place where technology meets hope.
The project, executed in partnership with Coral Reef Innovation Africa, is part of StarOil’s broader commitment to empower deprived communities through education, innovation, and infrastructure.
A Dream Rooted in Family and Legacy
The initiative was championed by Torgbui Xornametor I, Chairman of StarOil and known privately as Mr. Vincent Kwamitse Kaledzi. The project, he explained, was built in memory of his late brother, Dr. Leonard Yao Kaledzi, who established the first basic school in Bleamezado decades ago.
“This Lab is not just a building — it’s a legacy. It’s about giving back and creating opportunities so our young people can dream bigger,”
— Torgbui Xornametor I said.
He expressed concern about the rising trend of youth involvement in crime, drug abuse, and social vices, urging them instead to embrace technology and education.
“Artificial Intelligence is the future. Our youth must take advantage of it, not waste their potential. This facility is here to guide and empower them,”
— he added.
StarOil’s Commitment Beyond Bleamezado
StarOil’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Philip Kwame Tieku, said the company plans to replicate similar projects across Ghana, particularly in deprived areas.
“We operate more than 250 fuel stations nationwide, but our greatest investment is in people. This is just the beginning,”
— Mr. Tieku said.
He emphasized that Artificial Intelligence and ICT will revolutionize STEM education in the coming years.
“The world is moving fast, and our education system must adapt. AI is not here to replace teaching — it’s here to enhance learning,”
— he added.
StarOil’s future projects will also include health centres, potable water systems, and youth-centred programs, all aimed at improving living standards in underdeveloped communities.
Partnerships That Power Change
Richard Osei-Anim, Managing Partner of Coral Reef Innovation Africa, said the organization works across Africa to make AI accessible to all.
“We partner with companies like StarOil to give young people access to digital tools and training. We want to see an Africa where every community can benefit from technology,”
— he said.
Government and Education Support
At the commissioning, the Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, announced that the government will build a Community Senior High School in the Shime area within the next 24 months to further expand access to education.
“The people of Shime deserve their own SHS. Government is committed to ensuring that happens,”
— the Minister said.
He lauded StarOil and Coral Reef for their efforts, adding:
“In this fast-changing world, we must appreciate those who support learning and the acquisition of AI and ICT skills.”
The Volta Regional Director of Education, Mr. Francis Agbemadi, praised the initiative and urged students to study hard to make the most of the opportunity.
As the crowd dispersed, one thing was clear: Bleamezado is no longer just a village. It has become a symbol of what happens when vision, partnership, and purpose unite.
