Heath Goldfields Limited says it is making significant progress in reviving operations at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine, despite the numerous legal and financial challenges inherited from previous operators.
The Managing Director, Mr. Appiah-Mensah, made this known during a stakeholder engagement that brought together chiefs and residents of Bogoso and Prestea. He disclosed that the company has already invested about 75 million dollars in preparatory works ahead of full-scale production, describing the move as a strong show of commitment to restoring the mine to its former glory.
“Despite the legal setbacks, our determination has not wavered. We are working tirelessly to make Bogoso-Prestea a model of sustainable mining and local participation,” he said.
As part of its stabilization efforts, Heath Goldfields has paid a significant portion of the outstanding salaries owed to mine workers, amounting to GHC103 million, and cleared accumulated electricity debts left behind by the previous operator, Blue Gold FGR. The company has also reached an agreement with government to settle a seven-million-dollar mineral rights rent liability inherited from the former leaseholder.
“These efforts demonstrate our commitment to reviving the mine and ensuring that workers, communities, and the state benefit from this project,” the Managing Director noted.
He revealed that Heath Goldfields has outlined a five-year strategic plan that will see a total investment of 205 million dollars in underground mine redevelopment and the establishment of a sulphide processing plant, targeting an annual gold production of 285,000 ounces. The immediate focus, he said, is to complete the dewatering of the underground mine by the first quarter of next year. Currently, about 10 million litres of water are being pumped out daily, with water levels reduced by approximately 75 feet as refurbishment works near completion.
Mr. Appiah-Mensah emphasised that Heath Goldfields is 90 percent Ghanaian-owned and 100 percent Ghanaian-managed, underscoring the company’s commitment to national participation and economic empowerment. “We are not just reopening a mine; we are rebuilding a Ghanaian legacy through responsible mining, innovation, and sustainability,” he affirmed.
He further disclosed that the recommissioning of the processing plant and the start of open-pit operations are on course. “By having Ghanaian ownership and Ghanaian management, we are giving practical meaning to President Mahama’s vision of deepening local content and participation in the mining industry,” he said.
The Divisional Chief of Prestea Himan, Nana Nteboa Pra V, who led the traditional delegation, commended the management of Heath Goldfields for their dedication and visible progress within a short period. He expressed optimism about the future of the mine and the community, stating that the revival of Bogoso-Prestea brings renewed hope to the people of Prestea.
“The mine has come a long way, and the time to develop and upgrade it is now,” he said. “We have sacrificed a lot for this mine and deserve to see tangible benefits. Within this short time, Heath Goldfields has shown that it is ready to deliver real progress.”
Nana Nteboa assured the company of the chiefs’ and community’s full support, describing the ongoing developments as a new dawn for Prestea and its people.
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