Residents of the Komenda Traditional Area are escalating their protest against the 25-year lease of the Komenda Sugar Factory to an Indian firm by moving the demonstration to Accra. Initially planned for August 13, 2024, in Komenda, the protest will now take place in the capital on a date yet to be announced, as the group seeks to amplify their concerns at the national level.
The demonstrators are demanding the reversal of the lease agreement, arguing that the factory should focus on processing locally-grown sugarcane instead of importing raw sugar. They also claim that the lease deal was made without proper consultation with stakeholders and did not follow the necessary procedural steps.
In a statement issued on August 11, 2024, the Concerned Citizens of the Komenda Traditional Area explained that relocating the protest to Accra is intended to garner greater attention from the government and ensure that their demands are heard. The group is currently in discussions with relevant stakeholders to finalize the new date for the demonstration.
The Komenda Sugar Factory, once a symbol of Ghana’s industrial ambitions, has been at the center of controversy since its closure and subsequent leasing to the Indian firm. The protestors hope that their efforts will lead to a reassessment of the factory’s future and a return to its original purpose of supporting local agriculture.
Read below the statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CALL TO ACTION
As Concerned Citizens of Komenda Traditional Area, we welcome investment agreements, including those with foreign investors that benefit local stakeholders and protect the interests of local sugarcane outgrower farmers, with government assurance that farmers’ concerns will be addressed and their benefits ensured.
We are compelled to express our deep concern and disappointment regarding the government’s handling of investment agreements, particularly the lack of transparency and consultation with local stakeholders.
Commitments have been made to introduce new sugarcane varieties, develop new farmland, and support outgrowers, which we have sought clarification on directly with investor representatives. However, we remain vigilant and demand direct government assurance and transparency to guarantee these commitments and ensure local sugarcane farmers benefit equitably.
DEMONSTRATION UPDATE
Following careful consideration and consultation with stakeholders, we have resolved to relocate our demonstration from Komenda to Accra. This strategic decision aims to amplify our voices, escalate our demands, and ensure that our concerns receive the attention they deserve at the highest level of government.
A new date for the demonstration will be announced shortly, pending further engagement with relevant stakeholders and authorities. We are confident that this move will galvanize support, foster greater solidarity, and ultimately contribute to a more effective and impactful advocacy campaign.