Divisional chiefs in the Bogoso-Prestea mining area have appealed to President John Mahama to intervene and ensure the Bogoso-Prestea Mine is placed under the management of a financially capable investor who can restore it to full operational capacity.
The petition, dated March 18, 2026, was signed by three divisional chiefs — Nana Adu Panyin II of Bondaye-Nsuta, Nana Nteboa Prah IV of Prestea-Himan, and Nana Kwesi Sompreh II of Bogoso. It was submitted to the Office of the President at Jubilee House and copied to the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, and the Western Region Minister.
“The Bogoso-Prestea Mine remains a strategic national asset with significant mineral resources,” the chiefs wrote. “With the right capital investment, technical expertise, and responsible management, the mine has the potential to once again be a major contributor to Ghana’s gold production, national revenue, and local employment.”
The traditional leaders described the mine as a generational economic pillar, historically supporting employment, local businesses, and community development over decades.
Their concerns come after a troubled ownership transition. In September 2024, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources terminated mining leases held by Future Global Resources after the company failed to meet its financial and operational obligations. The chiefs welcomed the decision, hoping it would attract a stronger investor.
Leases were subsequently awarded to Heath Goldfields Limited in December 2024. Initially, the award renewed hope among residents and traditional authorities. However, more than a year later, the chiefs say progress remains slow.
“The level of redevelopment and revitalisation expected has not materialised,” the petition states, noting that community members continue to raise concerns about delays and uncertainty over the mine’s future.
The chiefs stressed that sustainable redevelopment requires an investor with proven financial strength, technical competence, and long-term commitment — capable of rehabilitating the mine, restoring operational efficiency, and fully exploiting its mineral resources, including underground and refractory ores.
They urged President Mahama to ensure the mine is handed to an entity with the necessary capacity. “We remain committed as Traditional Authorities to supporting responsible mining operations that promote development, employment, and social stability within our jurisdiction,” the petition added.
Located in the Western Region, the Bogoso-Prestea Mine has historically been one of Ghana’s major gold-producing assets. Its prolonged inactivity has deepened economic hardship for surrounding communities that depend heavily on mining-related jobs and income.