Residents of Ada have passionately defended Electrochem Ghana Limited, the salt mining company operating in their community, urging sections of the media to stop what they see as attempts to tarnish the company’s reputation.
The call comes amid accusations from some quarters, including investigative reports by The Fourth Estate, alleging environmental and social harm caused by the company’s operations.
For many residents, however, Electrochem’s presence represents a lifeline.
The company, which manages the Songor Lagoon salt project, has provided jobs, social amenities, and economic empowerment to a community that has long battled unemployment and poverty.
“We are finally getting jobs and can take care of our families,” said Mary Anang, a fishmonger who now doubles as a salt processor. “For years, the Songor Lagoon was left to rot, and illegal miners took over. Now, Electrochem has brought order, and we are benefiting. Why is the media trying to destroy this opportunity for us?”
The Songor Lagoon, historically a vital resource for Ada, was plagued by disorganized and illegal salt extraction for decades.
When Electrochem Ghana Limited took over operations in 2020 under a government concession, the company promised to transform the industry, create jobs, and develop the community. So far, residents claim the promises are being fulfilled.
“We can see the changes in our lives,” added Kofi Tetteh, a laborer at the company. “People who had no hope of employment are now working. The schools and clinics they are building are things we have been praying for. Those criticizing Electrochem don’t live here—they don’t understand our struggles.”
Electrochem has defended its operations, stating that it complies with environmental and social governance standards while investing in community development.
The company has built schools, roads, and other infrastructure and initiated programs to support local businesses.
However, not everyone agrees with this narrative. Some advocacy groups and sections of the media, notably The Fourth Estate, allege that the company’s activities have displaced fisherfolk, destroyed natural ecosystems, and violated the rights of some community members.
Electrochem has denied these claims, insisting that its operations are legal and its benefits far outweigh any temporary inconveniences.
In a recent town hall meeting organized by community leaders, residents issued a strong warning to critics: “We will not allow outsiders to destroy what we are building here,” said Madam Esi Afenu, a market leader. “The media must stop pushing their agenda and let us work.”
The tension between development and environmental conservation remains a delicate balance, but for the people of Ada, the stakes are clear: survival and economic empowerment take precedence.
As the debate continues, one question looms: Will the voices of Ada residents, who stand by Electrochem, be heard over the criticisms of its detractors? Only time will tell.
