The Mfantseman-Saltpond Alliance Foundation has expressed its firm commitment to advocating for a dedicated employment quota from Atlantic Lithium Company, specifically to benefit the youth in the Mfantseman Municipality. Ernest De-Graft Egyir, the founder and leader of the foundation, emphasized that the group is determined to collaborate with various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, the municipal assembly, community influencers, and government officials, in order to secure meaningful job opportunities for the young people in the region. The foundation aims to address the youth unemployment issue, which has long been a concern for the community, and to create avenues for sustainable development.
One of the key initiatives the foundation plans to undertake is the development of a comprehensive resource map for the municipality. This map will serve as a vital tool in identifying the region’s untapped resources, as well as the areas where investment and support are most needed. Additionally, the foundation is planning to craft a seven-year development strategy that will provide a structured and long-term approach to growth. The strategy will be carefully designed to ensure that the municipality benefits from all available opportunities, and that local communities see tangible progress in both economic and social sectors.
At the official launch of the foundation, Mr. Egyir articulated the group’s vision and mission to the public, highlighting the need for community cooperation to drive change. A key part of the foundation’s strategy is to foster unity among the people of Mfantseman Municipality, and to create a sense of belonging and pride. To achieve this, the foundation announced plans to organize a “Homecoming” event called Salpond Fest. This event is expected to bring together former residents, leaders, and other key stakeholders from both within and outside the municipality, to celebrate the culture, heritage, and potential of the region. The goal of this event is not only to build stronger ties within the community but also to create an opportunity to discuss future projects, identify challenges, and collectively work on solutions that can lead to sustained development.
Despite the significant oil reserves in the area, which include the Saltpond Oil Rig, the foundation leaders pointed out that the municipality has seen minimal direct benefits from this resource. They voiced concerns that, to date, there have been no scholarships provided to local youth, leaving them with few opportunities for further education or skill development. This lack of educational support, according to the foundation, has contributed to a cycle of limited opportunity for many young people, stunting the potential of the next generation. In response to this, the foundation is committed to ensuring that youth in the region have access to the resources they need to pursue higher education and vocational training.
Furthermore, the foundation is resolute in its efforts to create a united front that can advocate for the allocation of resources, funding, and initiatives that will improve the livelihoods of the people of Mfantseman Municipality. By joining forces with various local and national entities, the foundation aims to create a robust platform for dialogue and action. This united front will be key in ensuring that the area’s developmental needs are not overlooked and that the municipality is able to secure the resources and opportunities it deserves.
In conclusion, the Mfantseman-Saltpond Alliance Foundation’s commitment to advocating for a dedicated employment quota from Atlantic Lithium Company, alongside its plans to develop a resource map and long-term development strategy, signals a new chapter of hope and progress for the people of the Mfantseman Municipality. By working with key stakeholders and focusing on education, job creation, and community cohesion, the foundation seeks to drive meaningful change and ensure that the benefits of the region’s natural resources are felt by all. Through efforts such as the Salpond Fest and continued advocacy, the foundation is laying the groundwork for a brighter and more prosperous future for the youth and communities of Mfantseman.
