The Bogoso-Prestea Mine in Ghana’s Western Region is at a critical juncture, with workers appealing to the government for urgent intervention. Local contractors, youth groups, and traditional leaders have united to voice their concerns over alleged unauthorized activities, labor abuses, environmental threats, and overall mismanagement under Heath Goldfields Limited (HGL). The situation calls into question the long-term sustainability of mining operations in the area, prompting fears of economic collapse and environmental disaster. The workers’ petition highlights a series of grievances that, if unaddressed, could have devastating consequences for the region.

The core of the issue, as outlined in a petition signed by Richard A. Baidoo, James Quaicoe, and Samuel K. Wilson, revolves around the circumstances surrounding the Bogoso-Prestea Mine and its operations under HGL. Allegations of illegal gold extraction and worker mistreatment have fueled unrest among the workforce, who are demanding greater transparency and accountability. The future of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine hangs in the balance, awaiting decisive action from the government.

Golden Star Resources (GSR) sold the mine to Future Global Resources (FGR) in October 2020, beginning a period of instability. FGR’s subsequent refusal to pay severance triggered labor disputes, eventually resolved through settlement. However, FGR’s failure to invest adequately led to the mine’s operational decline. The situation worsened when GRIDCo and VRA cut power in December 2023, crippling operations. Ultimately, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources terminated FGR’s lease in September 2024.

Confusion now reigns around the lease transfer to Heath Goldfields. Workers allege conflicting reports about the new leaseholder, Heath Goldfields Limited (HGL), which was incorporated in February 2024 with a stated capital of GH₵10,000. The absence of official communication from the Ministry or Minerals Commission has only fueled uncertainty and anxiety among the workforce. According to the petitioners, “This has caused deep uncertainty and unrest. The only information confirming the lease transfer has come from media interviews—not from the Ministry or the Minerals Commission.” While HGL introduced itself to local chiefs in February 2025, it has yet to engage directly with workers or clarify their employment terms, leaving them in a state of limbo.

The allegations against HGL extend beyond mere administrative confusion. Workers claim illegal gold extraction is occurring from the Process Plant during unauthorized midnight operations by HGL operatives. Furthermore, encroachment by illegal miners and underground flooding present significant risks of permanent mine collapse. Perhaps most alarmingly, the deterioration of the Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) poses an imminent threat of failure, potentially contaminating vital water bodies. “If left unaddressed, the situation could lead to a catastrophic failure… Ghana may face its first fatal TSF incident,” the petitioners warned. The situation at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine is indeed critical.

Adding to the turmoil are allegations of worker harassment, unfair dismissals, and threats leveled against those who dare to question management decisions. Many workers remain unpaid since February 2024, with only partial payments extended to a select few. Compounding these issues, “The new management remains faceless and inaccessible,” further alienating the workforce and hindering any prospect of constructive dialogue.

Faced with these challenges, the petitioners are urgently calling for government intervention. They implore the Regional Minister to take immediate action to halt the alleged abuse and unsafe working conditions. They seek official clarification regarding the holder of the mining lease and the terms under which it was granted. Moreover, they demand strict compliance with Ghana’s labor, environmental, and mining regulations. To foster transparency and accountability, they propose the establishment of a Multi-Stakeholder Oversight Committee, comprising worker representatives, local contractors, traditional leaders, and representatives from the MCE and MP’s offices. Finally, they advocate for the appointment of a financially and technically competent investor capable of revitalizing the Bogoso-Prestea Mine and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

“Honourable Minister, the situation at Bogoso-Prestea Mine is dire. Livelihoods are being lost, businesses are collapsing, and trust in leadership is eroding. We are on the brink of total collapse, not just of the mine, but of the community that depends on it,” the petitioners pleaded. They have expressed their readiness to cooperate fully with any investigation or mediation efforts undertaken by the government.

The future of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine now hinges on the government’s response. Will authorities take swift and decisive action to address the workers’ grievances, ensure the mine’s safe and sustainable operation, and protect the well-being of the community that relies on it? The answers to these questions will determine not only the fate of the mine but also the future of the region.

The crisis at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine demands immediate and decisive action. Workers are calling for transparency, accountability, and a commitment to safety and sustainability. The government’s response will not only determine the future of the mine but also the well-being of the community that depends on it. The plea for government intervention underscores the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing crisis at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine. It remains to be seen if authorities will take prompt action to mitigate further damage and to restore faith in the mining industry.