The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources responsible for Mines, Mr George Mireku Duker, has called on stakeholders in the mining sector and traditional authorities to support and ensure the sustainability of Atlantic Lithium Limited in the country.
He noted that the support of stakeholders would not only trigger the economic progress of the Central Region but also benefit the youth.
The Deputy Minister made the call during a working visit to the site of Atlantic Lithium in Mankessim on Tuesday.
He reassured Ghanaians that the terms of Atlantic Lithium’s mining lease are one of the best globally and would bring significant prosperity to the country.
He described the enhancement of the royalty regime from five per cent to 10% as a move that was expected to maximise 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,” he added.
Mr Mireku Duker commended Atlantic Lithium for respecting the local content policy that ensures that its managerial workforce is largely Ghanaians.
“Atlantic Lithium 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,” he said.
On his part, the General Manager of Atlantic Lithium, Mr Ahmed Salim, updated the team on the operations of the company.
He appealed to the government to take steps to enable Parliament to ratify the lease agreement for the company to start commercial operation next year.
Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD