Heath Goldfields ordered to halt operations at Bogoso-Prestea Mine

The Chief Inspector of Mines at the Minerals Commission has ordered Heath Goldfields to suspend all operations at the Bogoso-Prestea mines, citing multiple regulatory breaches.

The directive, issued on June 24, 2025, is in accordance with Regulation 22 of the Minerals and Mining (Health, Safety, and Technical) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2182), following what authorities described as a "robust and thorough review" of the company's operational practices, regulatory compliance, and administrative procedures.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Director of Communications, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, confirmed that the company has been given 45 days from the date of the order to address the violations and carry out essential maintenance as outlined by the Minerals Commission.

Regulatory Failures and Operational Concerns

The Ministry disclosed that Heath Goldfields' failure to meet key operational and legal obligations triggered the suspension. Notably, inspections revealed worsening conditions at the site, including a deteriorating Tailings Storage Facility and a non-functional Process Water Treatment Plant.

Additionally, illegal mining activities were reported within parts of the company's concession, and the company transported gold-bearing concentrates without prior approval from the Ghana Geological Survey Authority and the Minerals Commission — a direct violation of their lease agreement.

"The company's unsatisfactory operations were confirmed after a comprehensive assessment of its technical, safety, and regulatory compliance," the Ministry's statement emphasised.

Background to the Dispute

Heath Goldfields acquired the Bogoso-Prestea mining leases in November 2024 after receiving clearance from the Minerals Commission, based on a satisfactory technical and financial review.

As part of the acquisition, the company committed to a Strategic Mine Development Plan with a phased timeline stretching from 2025 to 2039, focusing on site preparation, operational development, and eventual mine closure.

However, by mid-May 2025, authorities reported no significant progress at the site. Inspections revealed that the land and infrastructure had further deteriorated compared to previous assessments, raising concerns over the company's financial and operational capacity.

Workers' Grievances and Ministerial Intervention

The situation escalated after concerned workers petitioned the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), over unpaid salaries and poor working conditions.

The Minister visited the mine on May 23, 2025, to conduct an on-site assessment, which confirmed the operational and financial challenges facing Heath Goldfields.

Next Steps and Potential License Termination

In addition to the 45-day window to address immediate safety and operational issues, Heath Goldfields has been granted a 120-day remediation period under Regulation 200(3) of L.I. 2176 and Clause 27(b) of its Mining Lease Agreement to fully rectify all breaches.

Failure to comply within the stipulated period could lead to the outright termination of the company's mining license.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to strict enforcement of mining regulations to protect national resources and ensure responsible mining practices in Ghana.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena