A non-partisan pressure group named “Value for our Lithium” in the Mfantseman Municipality is urging authorities to reconsider the proposed one percent development levy for lithium mining, advocating for an increase to 15 percent.
Comprising youth from various communities in the municipality, the group expressed concerns over the potential adverse effects of mining activities on local communities.
During its inaugural executive meeting in Saltpond, the group called for a dedicated fund for the levy, managed by a credible board of trustees, to ensure transparent and accountable development in the municipality.
Mr. Kofi Acquah, the group's secretary, acknowledged the economic benefits of mining activities but raised concerns about the opacity surrounding the contract between the Government of Ghana and Atlantic Lithium, the mining company.
Mr. Acquah emphasized the importance of community involvement, expressing worries about the lack of development resulting from past resource extraction, citing the Saltpond Oil Field as an example.
He clarified the group's intentions, stating, “We are not going to fight anybody, but we will help the leaders to make changes. We want to protect the interest of the municipality, protect our environment, and protect the future of the next generation.”
The group pledged to ensure adherence to local content policies, advocating for the training and employment of local youth by the mining company.
Mr. Jerry Bill-Crentsil, the lead convener, highlighted the potential dangers, including water pollution, diseases, and climate change, and called for responsible and sustainable development practices.
He questioned the differential treatment of African countries by international mining companies and urged the mining company to invest in essential amenities such as hospitals and schools for the affected communities.