Parliamentary committee on Mines, Energy, and Natural Resources has begun hearing the concerns of the people of Ada. The Committee is resolved to restore peace and communal living to foster development in the area.
At their meeting last Thursday, Honourable Suhini intimated that the approach to resolving the Ada Songor Lagoon issues requires more than just a logical approach adopted by parliament. He urged caution in how the house concludes the matter, especially after hearing both the local MP and the people’s presentation.
He indicated that three pertinent issues could emerge from the meeting between the factions: human rights abuses, boundary disputes, and compensation issues. To address these concerns, he suggested the Committee enquire from the parties and proposed that each party select their representatives for the meeting with the committee.
Honourable Atta Kyea, Chairman of the Committee, assured the people of Ada that the government is willing to review the contract if necessary. He promised an amicable settlement within a short time, ensuring that all parties will be satisfied. He also urged the gathering to avoid causing trouble that could warrant military intervention.
In response, Abdul Razak Adam, CEO of Electrochem Ghana Limited, stated that no individuals or groups have been displaced from their lands or homes due to the company’s operations within the Ada Songor enclave. He emphasized that the living standards in the catchment communities have improved due to the company’s corporate social investments.
Mr. Adam disclosed this when he appeared before Parliament’s joint committees on Energy, Mines, and Forestry on Thursday, July 4, 2024.
Background
On November 6, 2023, some irate youth of Toflokpo clashed with security officers over the operations of Electrochem Ghana. Subsequently, the Member of Parliament for Sege, Christian Otuteye, called for legislative intervention to prevent future occurrences.
First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei-Owusu, directed the then Mines and Energy committee to investigate the leasehold agreement and parliamentary approval that authorized Electrochem Ghana to embark on salt mining in Ada.
Responding to allegations from groups like the Dangbe East Salt Producers Association (DESPA) and Ada Songor Lagoon Association (ASLA) against Electrochem, the CEO reiterated that no individuals had been made homeless. He noted that lives and living conditions have improved due to Electrochem Ghana’s corporate social responsibility activities.
“There is no single person displaced from their home, even though the area covers 42,000 acres. The communities we met are still existing, and their lives have improved due to our investments in sanitation, water supply, education, and interest-free loans,” Mr. Adam told parliament.
The Electrochem Ghana CEO also refuted claims that indigenous salt miners have been displaced. He explained the company’s “community pans” concept, which ensures parallel mining opportunities for local communities alongside Electrochem’s operations.
Mr. Adam also informed the joint committee that ASLA emerged after Electrochem’s establishment to derail Ada’s progress. He accused the group of representing illegal miners who previously destroyed the lagoon.
“Our employment generation is over 4,000, with plans to double that, and over 80% of employees are from the Ada communities,” Mr. Adam said. He expressed optimism that parliament would find a lasting solution to the impasse.
The CEO revealed that the company targets a production capacity of four million metric tons of salt, significantly increasing from the past fifty years’ average of less than 300,000 metric tons. This increase could significantly boost Ghana’s economy.
Naa Adiki Manyeyo Adi I, Divisional Queen of the Royal Adibiawe clan of Ada and President of the Ada Queen Mothers Consortium, expressed concern about agitations against an investment bringing development and transformation to Ada. She criticized illegal salt miners who have destroyed the Songor lagoon and supported Electrochem’s efforts to improve the community.
Abraham Ahumah Tetteh, Public Relations Officer of ASLA, accused Electrochem of taking over lands, farmlands, and cemeteries, treating residents as trespassers. ASLA calls for the reversal of the Mining lease agreement with Electrochem Ghana to maintain peace in Ada.
Members of the committees advised all factions to remain law-abiding and assured them of parliament’s commitment to finding a lasting solution.
Background
The Ada Songhor Salt Project, constructed in the 1970s as the largest in sub-Saharan Africa, was vested in the government of Ghana in 1992. The project faced several challenges, including a lack of investment. Following parliamentary approval, Electrochem Ghana Ltd obtained a long-term lease in 2021 for mineral rights to redevelop the Ada Songor enclave.