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 that 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 their message to Jubilee House about needing action on this issue.

They called on the government to ensure ratification during this parliamentary session before recess begins. This would allow ABL to begin operations without further delay.

**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. ABL expects this trend to continue, creating significant job opportunities.

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

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

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

Community leaders appreciate GIADEC's transparent approach and are hopeful about timely parliamentary ratification. They expect mining operations and refinery development will begin soon after approval, benefiting both Ashanti region and Ghana overall.