Story by, Paul Mensah Nsor
Accra, Ghana - Former workers of the Bogoso-Prestea Gold Mine have expressed their deep disappointment and frustration with the current state of affairs at the mine, citing unfulfilled promises, unpaid entitlements, and a lack of accountability from the current operator, Heath Goldfields Limited.
Speaking at a press conference at the Ghana International Press Centre, the workers' representatives revealed that despite assurances from Heath Goldfields, the company has failed to pay outstanding Provident Fund contributions, End of Contract Benefits, Outstanding Leave Balances, and the 2023 Bonus.
"We are not here only to fight for what is due us financially, we stand here today on behalf of many in pursuit of justice, accountability, and a dignified future for the men and women who built and sustained this Mine," said the workers' representative.
The workers' plight began when Heath Goldfields took over the mine in November 2024, promising to clear outstanding debts, stabilize operations, and inject capital to revive the mine. However, the company has failed to meet its obligations, leading to a deterioration of the situation and the disengagement of hundreds of workers.
"We demand that Heath Goldfields pays us our entitlements immediately," said the workers' representative. "We also appeal to the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Armah Kofi Buah, to ensure that we receive every entitlement owed to us without further delay."
The workers' concerns are exacerbated by the fact that Heath Goldfields' current operations are focused on processing old tailings materials, which is not a sustainable strategy for the mine's long-term rehabilitation and production restart.
"We are not asking for charity, we are asking for what is rightfully ours," said the workers' representative. "We built this mine, and we deserve to be treated with dignity and respect."
The workers have appealed to the government to intervene and ensure that the mine is operated in a sustainable and responsible manner, with a focus on the welfare of the workers and the community.
"We are ready to support any directive or decision that ensures meaningful long-term investment, operational stability, and sustainable growth for the Bogoso-Prestea Mine," said the workers' representative. "But we will not stand idly by while our rights are trampled upon and our dignity is disrespected."
