The government has pledged decisive measures to address delays hampering the Ewoyaa Lithium Project, following a high-level engagement with traditional leaders from the Central Region.
A delegation of paramount chiefs from Mankessim, Nkusukum, Abura, Dominase, and Ogua met with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, to voice concerns over the prolonged standstill.
Chiefs Warn of Economic Fallout
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Omanhene of Mankessim, Osagyefo Amanfo Edu IV, expressed deep concern over the stalled project. He pointed to a sharp decline in global lithium prices—from $4,000 per tonne in 2022 to just $800 per tonne currently—as a stark reminder of the opportunity cost of inaction.
Although the Minerals Commission granted a moratorium in December 2023, parliamentary ratification has yet to follow, further delaying progress. The Chief noted that approximately 2,000 hectares of land allocated for the project have remained idle for over 16 months, preventing farmers from cultivating their fields. While compensation and resettlement discussions are underway, regulatory bottlenecks remain unresolved.
Government Assures Action
In response, Minister Buah reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to breaking the deadlock. He underscored the project’s strategic importance to both local livelihoods and Ghana’s broader industrialisation goals.
Deputy Minister Hon. Sulemana Yusif echoed the assurance, acknowledging the chiefs’ concerns and reaffirming President Akufo-Addo’s unwavering support for advancing Ghana’s lithium agenda.
Path Forward
The Minister emphasized the urgency of securing parliamentary approval and strengthening collaboration with the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) to expedite the project’s rollout.
With renewed government engagement and backing from traditional authorities, there is cautious optimism that the Ewoyaa Lithium Project will soon resume—unlocking long-awaited socio-economic benefits for the affected communities.
Story by Sheila Otuo Baffour