Divisional Chiefs from the Bogoso–Prestea Mine Catchment Communities have formally petitioned President John Dramani Mahama, urging his intervention to secure a financially capable investor to take over operations of the troubled Bogoso-Prestea Mine.
In a petition dated March 18, 2026, addressed to the Jubilee House, the traditional leaders expressed deep concern over what they describe as the failure of current leaseholder Heath Goldfields Limited to revive the mine more than a year after taking over operations.
The chiefs noted that the mine, historically one of Ghana’s key gold-producing assets, has long served as an economic backbone for communities in the Western Region, providing employment and supporting local businesses. However, they say expectations of a turnaround under Heath Goldfields have not materialised.
According to the petition, the mining leases were transferred to Heath Goldfields in December 2024 following the termination of the lease held by Future Global Resources by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in September 2024. The termination was due to the company’s inability to meet its financial and operational obligations.
The chiefs said the decision at the time raised hopes that a technically competent and well-resourced investor would take over and restore the mine to full operation. Instead, they argue, progress has been slow, leaving the future of the mine uncertain and communities increasingly anxious.
“As custodians of the land, we continue to receive concerns regarding the slow pace of development and the uncertainty surrounding the future of the mine,” the petition stated.
They emphasised that the Bogoso–Prestea Mine remains a strategic national asset with significant untapped mineral potential, particularly in underground and refractory deposits. However, they stressed that unlocking this potential requires substantial capital investment, technical expertise, and efficient management.
The chiefs are therefore calling on President Mahama to ensure that the mine is handed over to a new investor with the financial strength and technical capacity to rehabilitate operations, restore productivity, and create jobs.
They further indicated their readiness to support any responsible investor committed to sustainable mining practices and community development.
Copies of the petition were also forwarded to key regulatory bodies, including the Minerals Commission, the Chief Inspector of Mines, and the Western Regional Minister.
The appeal adds to growing pressure on authorities to address operational setbacks at the mine, amid broader concerns about investor capacity, regulatory oversight, and the long-term viability of one of Ghana’s historically significant mining operations.
