Residents from the Bogoso-Prestea mining enclave have staged a protest in Accra, calling for urgent government intervention to safeguard the future of the Bogoso-Prestea mine.
The demonstration, organised by the Bogoso Prestea Catchment Area Community Alliance, comes after weeks of escalating tension surrounding the management of the Bogoso-Prestea mining leases. Protesters expressed deep concern about the operational and financial state of the mine, warning of serious socio-economic consequences if immediate action is not taken.
The group converged at Black Star Square before marching to present a petition to key state institutions. These included Jubilee House, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and the Minerals Commission.
At the centre of the protest are allegations against Heath Goldfields Limited, the current leaseholder of the mine. According to the community alliance, the company has misrepresented its financial capacity and failed to meet critical operational and safety obligations.
Of particular concern to residents is the condition of the mine’s tailings storage facility, which they say poses a potential environmental and safety risk if not urgently addressed. Community leaders argue that the operator’s inability to fulfil these responsibilities threatens both lives and livelihoods in the enclave.
The protesters also referenced a reported 90-day ultimatum issued by the government earlier this year, intended to compel the company to rectify breaches. However, they claim little to no progress has been made, intensifying fears over a possible shutdown or collapse of what is considered a strategic national asset.
Receiving the petition on behalf of the government, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim assured demonstrators that their concerns would be communicated to the appropriate authorities for prompt consideration.
Residents say they remain resolute and will continue to demand accountability and transparency in the management of the mine, stressing that the future of their communities depends on swift and decisive government action.
By Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey
