Accra: The Ada Songor Lagoon Association (ASLA), representing local salt miners, has urged the government and relevant authorities to intensify efforts to restore and sustain peace in Ada amid tensions over the Songor Lagoon salt mining concession. The association emphasized that peace and stability are crucial for development and called on all stakeholders to demonstrate responsible leadership in addressing the long-standing impasse.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Abraham Ahuma, Secretary and Public Relations Officer of ASLA, stated that the people of Ada desire 'true independence' regarding the ongoing tensions surrounding the Songor Lagoon. He highlighted that alleged attacks on individuals and company property in the area were unnecessary and should not be repeated.
Electrochem Ghana Limited, a subsidiary of the McDan Group of Companies, secured three mining licenses and took over the Songor Lagoon concession for a 15-year period in January 2021. The concession covers about 41,000 acres of land spanning parts of the Ada East and Ada West districts. However, the company's operations have faced opposition from some individuals and groups along the lagoon, particularly local salt miners who fear losing their livelihoods. Among those groups is the Ada Songor Lagoon Association.
Mr. Ahuma noted that tensions had persisted in the area since the dispute began and called on authorities to ensure lasting peace. He stressed that the leadership must prevent a recurrence of past incidents. Commending Mr. Mordjifa Tanihu Jerry John Foreigner Mills-Nkrumah, the Ada West District Chief Executive, Mr. Ahuma acknowledged efforts to maintain peace and order, noting that the DCE has been taking steps behind the scenes to ensure stability.
While ASLA is not opposed to investment in the Songor Lagoon, Mr. Ahuma expressed concern over the allocation of the entire concession to the investor, arguing that such an arrangement could deprive local salt miners of their traditional livelihoods. He urged that both the company and the local miners be allowed to operate harmoniously.
Mr. Ahuma called on residents to refrain from attacking company property or engaging in acts that could escalate tensions. Additionally, he appealed to the company to ensure that security personnel deployed to the area do not intimidate local residents, stressing that mutual respect and cooperation are essential for lasting peace.