The Mfantseman-Saltpond Development Alliance (MSDA), a youth-driven group focused on local development, has applauded Parliament’s ratification of the Atlantic Lithium exploration agreement and is calling on the government to quickly complete the remaining processes needed to kick-start mining operations.
The group described the agreement as beneficial to Ghana’s long-term interests and praised the introduction of a sliding-scale royalty system for mineral resources.
Ernest De-Graft Egyir, President of the Alliance, said the lithium project presents a major opportunity to transform Saltpond and surrounding communities. He emphasized the urgency of moving from approval to active mining within the shortest possible time.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr. Egyir stated that local youth are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the project and are ready to collaborate with government authorities, traditional leaders, and the mining company to ensure successful operations at the Ewoyaa site in the Mfantseman Municipality.
He stressed the importance of local content, noting that the community expects to benefit directly from the project.
According to him, the Alliance is already planning skills development initiatives to equip young people in Saltpond for opportunities in the mining sector. He added that the group is also seeking partnerships with Atlantic Lithium to align training and employment opportunities with industry needs.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Mfantseman, Dr. Ebenezer Prince Arhin, expressed confidence that the lithium project would boost job creation and accelerate development in the area. He encouraged young people to build relevant skills to fully take advantage of emerging opportunities in the sector.
