The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has commended Heath Goldfields Ltd, current leaseholder and operator of the Bogoso-Prestea Gold Mine, for taking decisive action to settle a significant portion of the long-standing legacy debt owed to mineworkers.
According to the Union, Heath Goldfields Ltd has paid approximately GHS 80 million, addressing a major part of the total indebtedness owed to workers of the Bogoso and Prestea mines—an obligation inherited from the previous leaseholder.
The General Secretary of the Ghana Mine Workers Union, Abdul Moomin Gbana, in a statement lauded the Management of Heath Goldfields for settling the payment.
“This giant step by Heath Goldfields Ltd marks a critical milestone in honoring the commitments tied to their lease acquisition,” he said.
“It has brought immense relief to our members and their families. The Management of Heath Goldfields deserves our deepest commendation for demonstrating such bold leadership and integrity,” he added.
In November 2024, the Government of Ghana officially issued the Bogoso-Prestea mining leases to Heath Goldfields Ltd. A key condition of the lease was the full settlement of all outstanding worker-related debts left behind by the former operator.
“We are particularly impressed that, despite several months of legal hurdles seemingly aimed at frustrating the company’s investment plans, Heath Goldfields remained steadfast and committed to resolving the legacy debt,” the Union stated.
The Union further praised Heath Goldfields Ltd for assembling a dynamic team of young, competent Ghanaian mining professionals who are now spearheading the revival of the Bogoso-Prestea mine.
“These young professionals represent the future of Ghana’s mining sector,” the Union noted. “We are confident in their capacity to transform this asset into a world-class mining operation for the benefit of all stakeholders.”
Reaffirming its commitment, the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union pledged full support to the ongoing transformation process. “We are ready to work collaboratively with Heath Goldfields Ltd to ensure the remaining obligations are cleared and that the mine is fully revitalized,” the Union added.
The Union also used the opportunity to call for broader national support:
“We urge the Government of Ghana—particularly the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)—as well as our revered chiefs and the good people of Bogoso and Prestea, and indeed all Ghanaians, to support Heath Goldfields Ltd in this critical turnaround time.
