Despite facing criticisms over the controversial Ghana-Barari Lithium deal, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has remained adamant, insisting that the deal is in the best interest of the country.

Mr. Jinapor says the government thoroughly considered all available options before selecting the current path, deeming it in the best interest of the country.

During an interview with Citi TV on Monday, December 18, the Damongo Member of Parliament stated that the chosen option effectively addresses concerns related to green minerals while remaining financially feasible.

Mr. Jinapor explained that the government rejected a cooperative approach due to resource constraints and dismissed the option of new legislation due to its complexity and potential for delays.

“Cabinet examined the implications of all the options and came to the conclusions that they did. Ewoyaa concession is just a drop in the ocean, and it’s the first transaction we are getting into.

"The idea of establishing cooperation was not attractive. We didn’t have sufficient resources to deposit. The second one which was to have legislative amendments and new laws was cumbersome, and it was going to take a lot of time, and resources."

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources also stated that the government meticulously negotiated the deal.

“In this lease, we have negotiated carefully and successfully agreed that Barari DV Limited will mandatorily list on the Ghana Stock Exchange. Indigenous participation will be a minimum of 30%, state participation is 19%,” he added.