In a significant move aimed at bolstering the mining sector and fostering economic growth, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources responsible for Mines, Hon. George Mireku Duker, MP, has urged all mining stakeholders and traditional authorities to lend their support to Atlantic Lithium Limited.
This call comes amidst a working visit to the company’s site in the Mankessim Municipality of the Central Region, marking an important milestone in the relationship between the government and the mining industry.
Hon. Duker emphasized the significance of the company’s operations, noting that the terms of Atlantic Lithium’s mining lease are among the most favorable globally, promising substantial prosperity for the country.
“The 13% state-carried interest provided in the company’s mining lease is one of the best in the world,” Hon. Duker stated.
Moreover, Hon. Duker underscored the enhancement of the royalty regime from the existing 5% to 10%, a move that is expected to maximize the country’s earnings from its natural resources.
This increment is poised to place Ghana at a competitive advantage compared to other global mining leases, ensuring that the nation secures a more substantial share of the profits derived from its mineral wealth.
A key highlight of Hon. Duker’s visit was his commendation of Atlantic Lithium for adhering to the local content policy.
“The company has made significant strides in ensuring that its managerial workforce is predominantly Ghanaian. This approach not only promotes local employment but also builds capacity within the country, fostering a skilled workforce that can sustain the mining industry’s growth.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
A key highlight of Hon. Duker’s visit was his commendation of Atlantic Lithium for adhering to the local content policy. The company has made significant strides in ensuring that its managerial workforce is predominantly Ghanaian. This approach not only promotes local employment but also builds capacity within the country, fostering a skilled workforce that can sustain the mining industry’s growth.
Government’s Role in Ensuring Sustainability
The Deputy Minister assured the community and stakeholders that the government is committed to supporting sustainable mining practices. He emphasized that the government’s role is not only to regulate but also to partner with mining companies to ensure that operations are environmentally sound, economically beneficial, and socially responsible.
The support for Atlantic Lithium is expected to have far-reaching effects on the local communities in the Central Region. The company’s operations are anticipated to create numerous job opportunities, particularly for the youth, thus reducing unemployment rates and improving living standards.
Additionally, the economic activities generated by the mining operations will stimulate local businesses and infrastructure development, leading to overall regional growth.
During the visit, Mr. Ahmed Salim, the General Manager of Atlantic Lithium, provided an extensive presentation on the company’s operations. He detailed the steps taken by the company to prepare for commercial production and the measures in place to ensure environmental sustainability and community engagement.
Mr. Salim also highlighted the need for parliamentary ratification of the lease agreement to facilitate the commencement of commercial operations next year. He appealed to the government to expedite the ratification process, emphasizing that timely approval is critical for the company to start contributing to the national economy.
Hon. Duker reiterated that the involvement of traditional authorities and local stakeholders is vital in ensuring the project’s success. Their active participation will facilitate smooth operations, foster community trust, and enhance the socio-economic benefits for the region.
The Deputy Minister’s entourage included Mr. Peter Awuah, the Technical Director of Mines at the Ministry, and other officials from the Ministry and the Minerals Commission. Their presence underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that mining operations align with national interests and regulatory frameworks.
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