Thomas Yaw Enyam (R) addressing journalists
A group calling itself ‘Association for Responsible Mining and Development (ARMD)’ has commended Heath Goldfields Limited, operator of the Prestea-Bogoso Mine, for showing commitment to local economic development.
The group, made up of residents of Bogoso in the Western Region, noted that the company, which poured its first gold few months ago, has already started supporting local community initiatives in the area of education, health, sanitation and other infrastructure development.
Members of the group claim that the mining company has ensured that all other companies engaged to provide services to the Bogoso-Prestea Mine are local companies or fully owned Ghanaian businesses.
“This will also ensure that value created are retained in the host communities and in the country,” the group pointed out.
Addressing a press conference yesterday, the group therefore called on a section of the community members who are bent on frustrating the activities of the company to desist.
“The alleged investors behind these groups must give our community peace. With peace, the mine will develop and the impact will reflect on the people in the host communities,” they stressed.
Thomas Yaw Enyam, Assembly member for Bepo Electoral Area and spokesperson for the group, said a recent agreement on employment between Heath Goldfields and key stakeholders of the community confirms the commitment of the company to sharing benefits with host communities.
He disclosed that the mine has so far provided direct and indirect employment to over 1,400 individuals.
He added that the mine’s activities have created numerous auxiliary jobs and boosted the local economy.
“The mine’s operation has stimulated the local economy through the engagement of over 15 contracting companies, increased demand for housing, and the purchase of food, water, and other essential services,” he noted.
Mr. Enyam said, “We are hopeful that a plan to undertake legacy projects across the host communities by the company will soon commence.”
He noted that the group was pleased to acknowledge the payment of outstanding salaries, bonuses, and provident fund (PF) contributions owed workers of the previous operator of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine for the period of 2024 and 2025.
“This intervention has brought immense relief and dignity to affected workers and their families.
“For this, the former worker is optimistic of the revamping process and stand in waiting to rejoin the mine, when the opportunity presents itself,” he added.
The spokesperson also commended the company’s commitment toward settling outstanding debts owed suppliers and key institutions such as Volta River Authority (VRA), Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo), and the Prestea-Bogoso Municipal Assembly.
“As community citizens, our indigenous mining service contractor, Locoms, have received part payment of their old debt,” he revealed.
He also indicated that Heath Goldfields is poised to revive the Prestea underground mine, which will create more job opportunities for the youth in the area.
“These achievements stand as a testament to the company’s commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people in the Bogoso and Prestea communities,” he indicated.
From Emmanuel Opoku, Bogoso