Ghana’s first lithium agreement remains unratified by Parliament
The government has pledged to expedite work on the delayed Ewoyaa Lithium Project following concerns raised by local chiefs.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, met with a delegation of paramount chiefs from Mankessim, Nkusukum, Dominase, and Ogua on Thursday, May 1, 2025, to urgently address the issue.
Speaking on behalf of the chiefs, Osagyefo Amanfo Edu IV of Mankessim stated that the project has been on hold for far too long.
He noted that the global price of lithium has plummeted, from $4,000 per tonne in 2022 to just $800 in 2025.
Although the Minerals Commission gave the green light for the project in December 2023, Parliament has yet to grant final approval.
The chiefs emphasised that the delay is negatively affecting local farmers. Approximately 2,000 hectares of land have remained unused for over a year, making it difficult for many to farm.
While steps such as compensation negotiations and relocation planning for affected families have begun, bureaucratic delays continue to stall progress. He urged the Minister to act swiftly to resolve the matter.
In response, the Lands Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to getting the project back on track. His deputy, Sulemana Yusif, echoed the sentiment, stating that the President remains serious about fulfilling promises related to the project.
The Minister also assured the chiefs that the government will work more efficiently with Parliament and the Minerals Income Investment Fund to secure the final approvals necessary to move the project forward.
These renewed efforts aim to resume the project soon and deliver much-needed benefits to local communities.
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