The Ghana Chamber of mines has urged caution in the discussions following the Lithium deal between Ghana and Australia-based Atlantic Lithium Limited.
In a press statement, the largest advocacy group for the mining sector in Ghana, said the discussions must be measured and thoughtful to highlight diverse perspectives and safeguard Ghana’s attraction as a mining investment destination.
The chamber’s statement followed the ensuing public discussions after the Ghanaian government’s approval of the first lithium mine operated by Barari DV Ghana Limited, a subsidiary of Australia-based Atlantic Lithium Limited.
The project, situated at Ewoyaa near Ghana’s southern coast, is of strategic importance with the increasing demand for electric vehicle batteries globally.
Ghana received the royalty rate to 10 percent and the state’s interest in the project to 13 percent as part of the deal.
The statement signed by Joshua Mortoti, president of the chamber, said the advocacy group had taken keen interest in the national discussions over the deal.
The chamber lauded the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and Minerals Commission for their manifest commitment to promoting constructive public discourse, inclusive development, and transparency.
“In the same vein, we commend the civil society community for their important contributions to seeking a fair share of the benefits associated with the development of lithium resources for the country,” the chamber added.
The statement also debunked assertions in public domain that the mining sector had been short-changing the country in the distribution of mineral rents.
“Putting aside employments created in the sector to absorb local content and the purchases from local suppliers, more than proportionate share of mineral rents accrues to the government,” the statement emphasised.