Minority MPs Reject Report on Songor Lagoon Salt Mining Concession
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has strongly rejected a report by the joint committee on Mines and Energy and Lands and Forestry regarding the Songor Lagoon salt mining concession.
The report, which investigated a dispute between small-scale salt miners and Electrochem Ghana Limited, has been criticized for not recommending a review of the three mining leases granted to the company.
During a parliamentary debate, MPs Christian Otuteye (Sege) and Nii Lante Vanderpuye (Odododiodoo) expressed concerns that the report would worsen tensions in the Ada enclave rather than promoting peace.
They argued for inclusive stakeholder consultations to ensure local communities benefit from mining activities.
Vanderpuye stated, “We will not accept an investor monopolizing the concession while the local community suffers. Our people need to survive.”
Otuteye echoed this, stressing the importance of community involvement in decision-making.
“The lack of sufficient stakeholder consultations has led to the current unrest.”
In response, Samuel Atta Akyea, Chairman of the Mines and Energy Committee, urged political leaders to prioritize national interests over political gain.
He highlighted the economic potential of the salt mining industry, which could rival traditional exports like gold and cocoa.
Atta Akyea emphasized the need for enhanced security measures to facilitate the smooth implementation of the salt mining project, highlighting its potential benefits for Ghana and the local population.
The report’s recommendations come amid ongoing disputes over mining leases in the Songor Lagoon area, highlighting the complex interplay between local interests and national economic goals.
Source: expressnewsghana.com