Heath Goldfields settles majority of GH¢80m debt, paves way for Bogoso-Prestea mine revival

Heath Goldfields Limited, the current leaseholder and operator of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine in the Western Region, has cleared a significant portion of the GH¢80 million salary and wage arrears owed to workers. The Ghana Mine Workers Union (GMWU) commended the company, noting that the payment has brought much-needed relief to its members and their families after months of uncertainty and legal battles. The confirmation came during the Union’s National Executive Council meeting held in Tarkwa, where General Secretary Abdul-Moomin Gbana praised the progress made.

Mr. Gbana recalled that in November 2024, the government reassigned the Bogoso-Prestea mining leases to Heath Goldfields Limited after the previous leaseholder failed to operate the mine effectively. This followed months of agitation by the GMWU, which demanded the termination of the previous lease due to unpaid worker compensation. He explained that the Minerals Commission conducted thorough due diligence before recommending the reassignment, with one key condition being the full settlement of worker indebtedness. However, legal disputes had delayed the restart of mining operations.

Heath Goldfields Limited is now working closely with the GMWU to clear the remaining arrears and restart operations at the mine. Mr. Gbana praised the company for assembling a team of young, talented Ghanaian mining professionals who are committed to reviving the Bogoso-Prestea asset and creating long-term value for all stakeholders. He expressed confidence that the mine could be transformed into a world-class operation under the new management.

The Union pledged full support to Heath Goldfields Limited in its efforts to not only settle outstanding debts but also revitalize the mine. Mr. Gbana called on the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, regulatory bodies such as the Minerals Commission and Environmental Protection Authority, as well as traditional leaders and local communities, to back the turnaround agenda. The revival of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine, he said, would bring economic relief, jobs, and renewed growth to the region.