Workers at the Bogoso Prestea Mine have expressed frustration with government authorities and investors, accusing them of abandoning their commitments to restore the mine and safeguard their livelihoods.
In a press release, the workers, operating as ‘Concerned Workers’, voiced their feelings of deception and disappointment after promises made over the past year remained unfulfilled.
Their struggles began following the termination of FGR Bogoso Prestea Limited, the previous mine operator, and continued with unfulfilled assurances of revitalization by new investor, Heath Goldfields Limited.
Despite promises from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission, workers claim that Heath Goldfields has yet to receive the official mining lease for the Bogoso Prestea site.
The workers further allege that the lack of a formal lease, as confirmed by the current Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has created confusion and mistrust in both the workforce and local communities.
Operational challenges at the mine persist, including rampant illegal mining, stolen gold concentrate, and deteriorating infrastructure such as the Tailings Storage Facility (TSF). The workers contend that Heath Goldfields lacks the technical expertise and financial capacity to manage the mine, which has worsened conditions.
Union leaders and officials connected to the new investor are accused of prioritizing management roles and financial gain over workers’ welfare.
This has led to calls for reconsideration of the former operators, FGR/Blue Gold, who are now seen by workers as better suited to manage the mine.
The situation at Bogoso Prestea highlights broader concerns in Ghana’s mining sector regarding government oversight, investor due diligence, and working conditions.
Workers are now calling for urgent intervention from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, local chiefs, and all stakeholders to address the worsening situation. They emphasize the serious environmental and safety risks posed by the current state of the mine.
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