The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union has applauded the government of Ghana for its decisive and commendable action in awarding the mining leases for the Bogoso/Prestea Mines to Heath Goldfields.

The union expressed its support for the government's move, emphasizing that it would help revitalize the mines and safeguard the livelihoods of workers in the region.

In a statement issued on Monday, the union affirmed its commitment to working with Heath Goldfields and other stakeholders to ensure the prosperity of the Bogoso/Prestea Mines.

The union highlighted that its priority is the growth of the local economy and the well-being of its members, whose jobs have been at risk due to the challenges facing the mines.

“The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union is now convinced that the Bogoso/Prestea Mines are in a good position to receive the needed capitalization that will revamp the mines and put them on the path of growth and sustainability,” the union said.

The union also took the opportunity to address claims made by Future Global Resources (FGR), the previous owners of the Bogoso/Prestea Mines, and their associates, Blue Gold International.
Since the government issued the leases to Heath Goldfields in November 2024, FGR/Blue Gold has made various claims against the government’s decision.

However, the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union strongly rejected these claims, stating that they were misleading and aimed at undermining efforts to secure the future of the mines.
“We reject all claims orchestrated by FGR/Blue Gold that seek to impugn the efforts of the Government of Ghana and other stakeholders in the revival of the Bogoso/Prestea Mines,” the union asserted.

“The manoeuvrings of FGR/Blue Gold are disruptive and retrogressive, aimed only at destroying the mines, worsening the living conditions of workers and their families, and collapsing local businesses.”

The union also reminded the public of the facts surrounding the termination of the mining leases held by FGR. FGR acquired the Bogoso/Prestea Mines in 2020 but ceased operations in December 2023 due to financial difficulties.

The company faced significant debts, including $60 million owed to various entities such as the Volta River Authority, GRIDCO, and the Ghana Revenue Authority.

In addition, the mines experienced operational challenges, including a lack of power supply, which led to the cessation of production and severe hardship for workers.

In response to petitions from the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union, the Minerals Commission, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the government took the necessary legal steps to terminate FGR’s mining lease and issue new leases to Heath Goldfields.

The union fully supported the government’s actions, stating that FGR’s inability to inject capital into the business left no other viable option.

The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union expressed its confidence in the future of the Bogoso/Prestea Mines under Heath Goldfields.

The union remains committed to collaborating with the government, Heath Goldfields, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful turnaround of the mines, which is crucial for the welfare of workers and the local communities.

In conclusion, the union reiterated its strong support for the government’s decision, stating: “We stand fully with the decision of the Government of Ghana and commit to working with Heath Goldfields and all other relevant stakeholders to ensure the full realization of the government's goal of revamping the Bogoso and Prestea Mines for the greater good of all stakeholders.”