Divisional chiefs in the Bogoso-Prestea mining area have petitioned President John Mahama, urging his intervention to place the Bogoso-Prestea Mine under the management of a financially capable investor who can restore the facility to productive operations.

The petition, dated March 18, 2026, and signed by three divisional chiefs — Nana Adu Panyin II of Bondaye-Nsuta, Nana Nteboa Prah IV of Prestea-Himan, and Nana Kwesi Sompreh II of Bogoso — was submitted to the Office of the President at Jubilee House and copied to the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, and the Western Region Minister.

"The Bogoso-Prestea Mine remains a strategic national asset with significant mineral resources," the chiefs said in the petition. "With the appropriate level of capital investment, technical expertise, and responsible management, the mine has the potential to once again become a major contributor to Ghana's gold production, national revenue, and local employment."

The traditional leaders described the mine as a generational economic pillar for communities under their jurisdiction, providing employment, supporting local businesses, and driving area development over many decades.

Their concerns follow a troubled ownership transition at the mine.

In September 2024, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources terminated the mining leases held by Future Global Resources after the company failed to meet its financial and operational obligations. The chiefs said they welcomed that decision, hoping it would pave the way for a stronger investor.

Mining leases were subsequently granted to Heath Goldfields Limited in December 2024. The chiefs acknowledged that the new award initially renewed hope among traditional authorities and residents. However, more than a year on, they say the expected progress has not materialised.

"The level of progress expected in the redevelopment and revitalisation of the mine has not materialised as anticipated," the petition noted, adding that community members continue to raise concerns about the slow pace of development and uncertainty surrounding the mine's future.

The chiefs expressed the view that sustainable redevelopment of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine would require an investor with proven financial strength, technical competence, and long-term commitment — one capable of undertaking rehabilitation works, restoring operational efficiency, and unlocking the full potential of the mine's mineral deposits, including its underground and refractory ore resources.

They appealed directly to President Mahama to intervene and ensure the mine is handed to an entity with the requisite capacity.

"We remain committed as Traditional Authorities to supporting responsible mining operations that promote development, employment, and social stability within our jurisdiction," the petition read.

The Bogoso-Prestea Mine, located in the Western Region, has historically been one of Ghana's significant gold-producing assets. Its prolonged inactivity has deepened economic hardship in surrounding communities that depend on mining-related income and employment.