Report by Pearl Amoako- 7/03/2024
In his address commemorating Ghana’s 67th Independence Anniversary, President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo has highlighted two major economic projects and emphasized the importance of environmental protection.
The President focused on the country’s progress in the integrated aluminum industry and the upcoming Ada Songhor Salt project, while also urging Ghanaians to prioritize the preservation of Ghana’s natural resources.
President Akufo-Addo announced the successful selection of strategic partners for the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC). These partnerships will facilitate the construction of a new alumina refinery and the development of mines at Nyinahin-Mpasaaso, marking a significant step towards Ghana’s industrialization. The President expressed his optimism about refining bauxite mined in Ghana, which will not only support the VALCO smelter and downstream aluminum industry but also contribute to the production of motor vehicle parts, aircraft components, roofing sheets, and home utensils.
“We shall now refine bauxite, mined in Ghana, to produce alumina that will feed the VALCO smelter and the downstream aluminum industry, which is going to have a dramatic impact on Ghanaian industrialization, when we produce parts for motor vehicles, air crafts, roofing sheets and home utensils.”
Highlighting the importance of sustainable development, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the need to resolve litigation over the Atewa Forest Range in Kyebi. Once settled, the Kyebi bauxite mine and refinery will provide employment opportunities and high-paying jobs while promoting integration and value addition across the bauxite/aluminum value chain.
Another major project discussed by the President was the Ada Songhor Salt project, led by Electrochem Salt Mine Ltd and Ghanaian entrepreneur Mr. Daniel McKorley, also known as McDan. After years of disputes, work has finally begun on the salt mine, which is set to become the largest salt producing facility in Africa. With an initial production capacity of 650,000 metric tons per annum, expanding to one million metric tons this year and two million metric tons by 2027, the project is expected to significantly impact Ghana’s economy.
President Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of the rule of law in fostering economic prosperity. He emphasized that adherence to the rule of law should be applicable to all aspects of Ghanaian society, from the streets to offices, and from junior officials to the President himself.
“I must mention another important ingredient in the democratic structure, which is needed for economic prosperity, which is the rule of law. Businesses can only prosper in an atmosphere that guarantees the rule of law.”
Addressing environmental concerns, President Akufo-Addo called for a change in how Ghanaians treat the land. He emphasized the need to protect forests, rivers, vegetation, creatures, and soils, highlighting the importance of responsible mining practices that do not lead to the destruction of natural resources.
