Electrochem Ghana allocates 60 acres for out-grower salt production scheme

Electrochem Ghana is moving forward with its Out-Grower Scheme by allocating 60 acres of land for local salt production in the Ada West area. 

This allocation is part of a larger 1,000-acre initiative aimed at empowering local cooperatives and registered companies through sustainable salt mining operations.
 
Launched in August 2024, the Out-Grower Scheme is designed to benefit local salt miners in Ada and the surrounding areas. 
 
The Chief Engineer for Mine Service and Design for the company, Mr Bismark Nartey, who shared details about the land distribution said, “We’ve allocated 60 acres in the customs area, with two groups receiving plots measuring 500 meters by one kilometre. The land is ready for salt production, and boundary markers are in place for clear delineation.”
 
He explained that this allocation is part of a broader plan to incorporate a community-focused strategy into Electrochem’s operations.

“So far, we’ve allocated close to 400 acres to different communities,” Mr. Nartey added, pointing out that “As more participants join the scheme, we can adjust and allocate additional areas to accommodate everyone.”
 
Mr. Nartey emphasised that Electrochem’s land distribution focuses not only on providing space but also on ensuring access to high-quality brine for effective salt production. 

“We don’t just allocate land; we ensure these areas have access to brine,” he noted. 
 
The company is currently collaborating with five communities in western Ada, covering 350-400 acres, with further preparations underway for operations in the eastern areas.
 
Addressing concerns from those opposed to the company’s operations, Mr. Nartey stated, “We’ve made allocations, but there are still spaces available. We have areas marked as reserved that have not been allocated yet, so we are waiting for interested parties. We know many associations will come, so we’ve set aside these reservations. Our doors are open for negotiations with any association that follows the Minerals Commission’s process and meets the necessary requirements.”
 
He reiterated the company’s commitment to fostering local partnerships: “Once people show interest, we want to assure them that we are open to negotiations. They can come in anytime, discuss their needs, and we can agree on the area after conducting due diligence. We will also ensure a ready market for their products. We want to buy from them once they are ready to sell.”
 
Nene Dameh Sewu III, Chief of Togbloku Okor and Secretary to the Council of Ada Chiefs welcomed the development, stating, “We are grateful for the opportunity to mine salt. This will create jobs for our people and help us as chiefs address community needs.” 
 
He added, “Sustainability depends on best practices, which is why we are advised to move away from illegal mining to more advanced methods. This transition will improve yields and keep our salt marketable.”
 
Nene Sewu III continued, “This initiative will greatly impact job creation, as salt production provides essential employment. With economic power, we can diversify our efforts and support the overall well-being of our community. When everyone is working, we can contribute to the GDP and enhance our local economy.”
 
He emphasised the importance of ongoing dialogue: “We need to gather at the table and continually discuss issues. Challenges are inevitable, but they can also drive growth. We are committed to addressing these matters.”
 
Nene Sewu III also highlighted a recent meeting with the parliamentary committee on labour and livelihood, asserting, “As traditional rulers, we are doing our part to address concerns, and with everyone contributing, we can achieve our goals. Overall, this initiative represents a positive step forward.”