Pay Affected Farmers And Residents Compensation Now–Paramount Chief To Lithium Company
The Paramount Chief of Nkusukum Traditional Area has appealed to the Lithium Company to pay compensation promptly to the farmers and residents affected by the lithium mining activities at Ewoyaa.
The chief, Okogyeaman Okese Essandoh IX, noted that several complaints have been received from those affected about the failure of the company to fulfill its promise of compensation after destroying their properties, which has worsened their living conditions.
Ewoyaa is primarily a farming community whose farms and foodstuffs have been devastated by the mining operations, forcing residents to beg for food.
The chief has intervened to halt planned demonstrations by the affected residents against the Lithium Company, but he warned he might allow protests if compensation is not paid soon.
He has also written to the Lithium Company’s headquarters in Australia urging them to compensate the affected community promptly.
The situation in Ewoyaa reflects broader challenges faced by the community due to the lithium mining lease agreement, which has not yet been ratified by Ghana’s Parliament, causing delays in compensation and resettlement plans.
Many residents have been left stranded and uncertain as company workers continue mining activities, and they are unable to rebuild or maintain their properties.
The community fears environmental degradation, loss of livelihoods, and social unrest due to the protracted delays.
The issue is complicated by the fact that companies like Atlantic Lithium, the Australian-based firm operating in the area, have obtained permits and have begun mining activities, but compensation committees are still deliberating on payments.
There is deep mistrust among the residents about the transparency of the process and the lack of clear information on resettlement and social amenities.
The Paramount Chief’s appeal highlights the urgent need for the Lithium Company to honour its commitment and the government’s role in supporting the development and welfare of communities affected by mining activities.
These include not just compensation but also infrastructural support and assurances for sustainable livelihoods for residents whose farming and homes have been affected.
Additionally, the Kyidomhene of the Nkusukum Traditional Area, Nana Takyi VIII, has appealed to the government to invest in developmental projects such as market renovations and road repairs, as the area currently lacks development despite residents and market women paying taxes.
Story by Douglas Oyiboh Amponsah
