The Minerals Commission has appointed a six-member caretaker team to oversee operations at the Bogoso and Prestea mines following the government's termination of the mining leases of FGR Bogoso Prestea Limited.
The commission’s regional manager will lead the team in managing the mines, which are now under state control.
The decision to terminate the leases was announced on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor.
The move follows the findings of the Minerals Commission and a Ministerial Committee, which conducted a thorough review of the company’s operations.
Mr. Jinapor revealed that the operators had been cautioned in August 2023 for multiple breaches of mining regulations but failed to comply with directives from the commission to address the violations.
Despite this, Blue Gold Bogoso Prestea Limited, which claims to be the new operator of the mine, has contested the government's decision.
The company asserts that its operations are legal and has vowed to challenge the termination notice.
Martin Ayisi, Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, in an official notice, confirmed the appointment of the caretaker team, stating that they would "oversee the day-to-day affairs of the mine site effective immediately."
The commission will now manage the Bogoso-Prestea Mine until a new investor is secured.
The six-member team comprises senior officers and representatives of the workers' union.
The appointed senior officers include:
Mr. Emmanuel Dadzie
Mr. Abdul Malik Nuhu Billa
Mr. Samuel Mireku
The workers' union will be represented by:
Mr. Mac Donald Kitsin-Hytey
Mr. Enoch Kelly Kwofie
Mr. Ben Bright Caiquo
In addition, military personnel will remain stationed at the mine to safeguard its assets.
The head of the military will collaborate with the caretaker team to ensure the security of the site.
The termination of the mining leases follows extensive consultations with all stakeholders and marks a significant shift in the management of the Bogoso and Prestea mines.
The Minerals Commission is expected to continue its regulatory oversight until a new investor takes over operations.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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