Mankessim Chief Declares Lithium-Affected Communities ‘Artificial Disaster Zones,’ Calls for Urgent State Intervention
The Omanhen of the Mankessim Traditional Area, Osagyefo Amanfo Edu VI, has declared communities impacted by lithium exploration within his jurisdiction as “Artificial Disaster Zones,” urging the government to take immediate action to avert a worsening humanitarian situation.
The declaration follows the government’s decision to withdraw the lithium mining agreement from Parliament to allow for further stakeholder consultations. The move comes after nearly two years of delays during which compensation owed to affected farmers and landowners has remained unpaid, pending parliamentary ratification.
While acknowledging that the withdrawal could lead to improved terms for the country, the traditional ruler expressed deep concern that the prolonged process has severely aggravated the hardship faced by his people. He said the uncertainty has cast a shadow over the festive season, leaving many families distressed and without hope.
Addressing journalists at a press conference, Osagyefo Amanfo Edu VI lamented that, with Christmas only days away, numerous farmers remain impoverished, unable to cultivate their lands, while homes and farmlands have been taken over without any compensation.
He also sought to dispel what he described as widespread misinformation, stressing that the withdrawal of the agreement does not amount to the cancellation of the Ewoyaa Lithium Project. He described claims to the contrary as unfounded and misleading, explaining that the decision was influenced by pressure from civil society groups and industry experts advocating a better deal for Ghana.
The Omanhen further highlighted the psychological toll on affected communities, noting that although residents are not living in refugee camps, the fear, frustration and uncertainty surrounding their future have created a man-made disaster more damaging than a natural calamity.
He attributed the situation directly to delays in the ratification process involving Atlantic Lithium, arguing that the prolonged uncertainty is undermining livelihoods, stifling economic prospects and sowing social tension within the communities.
In a final appeal, Osagyefo Amanfo Edu VI warned that without swift government intervention, the festive season would be marked by despair rather than celebration. He emphasized that the suffering of his people is not the result of natural forces, but of administrative delays, and called for urgent action to prevent the situation from escalating into a full-blown humanitarian crisis.
GNA
