By Isaac Arkoh
Cape Coast, Nov. 23, GNA – Numerous farmers in Krampakrom, a farming community being relocated to pave the way for the exploration of Lithium in the Mfantseman Municipality of the Central Region, are demanding that new farmlands are included in the resettlement and compensation schemes.
The farmers expressed concerns that their livelihoods, diligently cultivated over the years, would be jeopardised without the allocation of suitable farmlands for them.
The new farmlands were therefore non negotiable to sustain their agricultural endeavours.
During a forum, Mr Emmanuel Nkrumah, speaking on behalf of the community, urged the compensation committee to consider the farmers and how the resettlement would impact on them and to consider their requests accordingly.
The forum, organised by Friends of the Nation, a non-governmental organisation, was aimed to educate residents on their rights regarding the impending relocation to be carried out by Atlantic Lithium Mining.
Mr Nkrumah also underscored the importance of generating employment opportunities for the numerous unemployed youth in the area.
He indicated that the absence of job opportunities after housing provisions were made, could disrupt the social cohesion of the community.
“As the 2021 Municipal Best Farmer for Mfantseman, I am concerned that the current circumstances would hinder my chances of winning the Regional Best Farmer award in future.
Mr Nkrumah alleged that the efforts of traditional authorities in the area to address the community’s requests had been disregarded by the company.
He lamented the frustration of the traditional leaders in Krampakrom and called on the authorities to take the necessary actions in response to their pleas.
The community implored the Atlantic Lithium Mining company to engage the affected communities and regularly provide support for them to have smooth operations.
Officials from FON commended the communities for seeking justice through peaceful means rather than resorting to violence.
They pledged to sustain community engagement efforts and expand it to other communities to ensure peace and foster accelerated development.
GNA