ABL Appeals To Government To Ratify Nyinahin Mining Lease

**Ashanti Bauxite Limited Appeals for Mining Lease Ratification**

Ashanti Bauxite Limited (ABL) is a joint venture. It includes the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) and Rocksure International Limited. ABL has asked the Ghana government to speed up ratification of the Nyinahin Block B Bauxite Mining Lease Agreement.

The joint venture plans to develop a bauxite mine and refinery. This project will be located in the Nyinahin-Mpasaaso area of the Ashanti Region. Local communities, including groups like Asante Kotoko Society, support this mining lease agreement.

ABL believes this project will boost economic development in Atwima Mponua and surrounding areas. They also think it will benefit Ghana as a whole.

In a news release sent to The Chronicle, ABL noted that Parliament received the mining lease on July 16, 2024. However, it has not yet been ratified. ABL urges the government to prioritize this lease for operationalization.

Community members demand that the agreement be ratified soon. They want ABL to start work or prevent other companies from mining their land.

ABL expressed frustration over delays in ratifying the agreement presented to Parliament last year. They emphasized that they are sending a strong message to Jubilee House about this issue.

They reiterated their call for quick action on the mining lease agreement executed on May 14, 2024. ABL hopes it will be ratified during this parliamentary session before any recess.

**Key Highlights of the Agreement**

The government holds a 30% equity stake in ABL through GIADEC, with an additional 10% as carried interest.

During prospecting, about 80% of workers were local community members in Atwima Mponua district. This trend is expected to continue, providing significant job opportunities.

ABL commits to pay 3% of its revenue towards a Growth and Sustainability Levy for community benefits. Additionally, they plan to establish a Community Development Fund for infrastructure improvements like schools and hospitals.

As part of its commitment, ABL plans to build a bauxite refinery in Nyinahin-Mpasaaso area. This facility will process bauxite into alumina and help create an integrated aluminium industry in Ghana.

The company promises measures to protect local ecosystems and water bodies from degradation. They believe establishing the refinery will generate jobs and stimulate local economies.

Community leaders appreciate GIADEC's transparent approach and express confidence in prompt commencement after parliamentary ratification. They expect tangible benefits for both Ashanti region and Ghana overall.