Lands Ministry Denies Giving Out Licence For Lithium Exploitation

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has discredited reports that it has granted a licence to a company to exploit Ghana’s lithium resources against the national interest.

The Public Relations Unit of the Ministry in a press statement on Wednesday, July 26 said the publications were false.

“For the avoidance of doubt, no company has been granted a lease, licence and/or permit to exploit, mine, and/or produce lithium in Ghana.”

Rather, it said the Ministry is exploring the mineral with a policy drafted and submitted to govern its exploitation in the country.

“The overarching goal of the policy is to ensure that the exploitation of these critical minerals inures to the benefit of the people of Ghana, the true owners of these resources,” it stated, adding that it will form the basis for agreements, leases, licences and permits for their utilization.

According to the Ministry, the policy is currently with the Council of State awaiting approval.

It further assured that the Ministry is committed to efficient, effective and sustainable exploitation and management of mineral resources of the country in a transparent mode to the benefit of Ghanaians.

“As the Honourable Minister Responsible for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP, has stated on a number of platforms, both local and international, Government I committed to ensuring that the exploitation of these mineral are done in a manner that accords with the national interest.”