The Central Regional Minister, Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, has called on traditional leaders and residents to take proactive steps to prevent illegal mining activities - particularly what he termed “lithium galamsey” - as the Ewoyaa Lithium Project moves closer to parliamentary ratification.

Speaking at the Grand Durbar of the 2025 Odambea Festival of the Nkusukum Traditional Area, the Minister commended the renewed national conversation on Ghana’s first lithium project, describing it as a life-changing opportunity for the Central Region.

He, however, cautioned that the project’s success would depend on strong local vigilance and responsible leadership.

“Chiefs, they are coming to mine the lithium here. We need to institute laws even before they start—let’s have the ground rules to avoid illegal mining. Once the project begins, nobody has the right to enter the concession to mine or extract resources to sell,” he said.

“Let’s pray and put in place measures to prevent ‘lithium galamsey’ from emerging and adding to our existing problems,” he urged.

His comments came shortly after the Paramount Chief of Nkusukum Traditional Area, Okogyeman Okese Essando IX, renewed his appeal to Parliament to expedite ratification of the Ewoyaa Lithium Project before the end of 2025, lamenting the delays that have stalled development and economic opportunities for the host communities.

“The delay is hurting our people. We have waited for two years since the lease was granted. We are calling on Parliament to act before the year ends so that our youth can finally benefit,” the Paramount Chief said.

Adding his voice, Member of Parliament for Mfantseman, Dr Ebenezer Prince Arhin, reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the majority of jobs created by the project go to residents.

“Atlantic Lithium, we will give you all the support you need to start mining. But when the project begins, remember that the youth of Mfantseman are ready. If you need drivers, machine operators, or vendors -we have them right here,” he stated passionately.

The Ewoyaa Lithium Project, spearheaded by Atlantic Lithium Ghana, was granted a 15-year mining lease in October 2023, following an investment of $68 million in exploration and feasibility studies.

Once operational, it is expected to generate over 800 direct and 2,700 indirect jobs, promote skills transfer in lithium processing, and dedicate 1% of annual revenues to community development projects such as roads, schools, and health facilities.

However, the project’s take-off has been delayed pending parliamentary ratification, a constitutional requirement under Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act.

Despite its promise, the delay has sparked concerns that Ghana may lose momentum in the global race for critical minerals amid falling lithium prices and rising competition from other African producers like Mali.

Residents of Mfantseman and Nkusukum say their urgent appeal is for the immediate start of the project - one that must translate into real jobs and tangible development.