Local contractors under the Local Companies in Mining Services (LOCOMS) have formally commended Heath Goldfields Limited and its Managing Director, Patrick Appiah Mensah, for taking proactive steps to alleviate longstanding financial obligations.

In a press release issued on Wednesday and signed by Imurana Salifu, Locoms Secretary on August 27, LOCOMS expressed sincere appreciation as the company made part-payment of legacy debt owed to local contractors, describing the move as a welcome relief that demonstrates a renewed commitment to trust-building and sustainable economic development.

"We acknowledge with appreciation the part payment of the legacy debt owed to contractors (LOCOMS), while we look forward to the final and complete payment to all affected parties. This gesture not only provides much-needed relief to local businesses but also demonstrates a renewed commitment to fostering trust, strengthening partnerships, and promoting sustainable economic activity in the mining catchment area" the statement noted.

LOCOMS' statement emphasised Heath Goldfields’ meaningful step toward paying legacy debt, offering much-needed relief to local businesses.

"We recognise that these actions, while part of an ongoing process, mark a positive turning point in relations between Heath Goldfields Limited and its stakeholders."

The group expressed hope for continued settlement of all outstanding liabilities and restoration of operations at Bogoso-Prestea in the Wesetrn region. LOCOMS also encouraged ongoing actions grounded in fairness, transparency, and shared prosperity as the mining firm works to revive operations at the Bogoso-Prestea site.

"It is our hope that such gestures will be sustained and expanded in the spirit of fairness, transparency, and shared prosperity, while HGL takes critical measures to ensure active operation of the Bogoso Prestea Mine without fail."

A broader context

This commendation follows Heath Goldfields' earlier high-profile settlement of GH₵80 million in legacy salary arrears owed to employees of the previous leaseholder, an action that earned praise from the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union for its promptness and fairness.

However, the company has faced regulatory scrutiny. In July 2025, the Minerals Commission ordered a halt to operations at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine, citing serious breaches of health, safety, and administrative rules. Heath Goldfields was given a 45-day window to address the violations or risk license revocation.

Adding to the challenges, an investigation into the company’s acquisition of the mining lease was discontinued by Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in early 2025, noting insufficient evidence of wrongdoing.