The management of Heath Goldfields has announced that they are making significant progress after taking over the Bogoso Prestea mine despite the numerous legal setbacks.
The Managing Director, Appiah-Mensah made the disclosure during a stakeholder visit by chiefs and people of Bogoso and Prestea.
Despite the legal setbacks, Mr. Appiah-Mensah disclosed that Heath Goldfields has already invested about 75 million dollars in preparatory works ahead of production.
The company has also paid a significant portion of the outstanding workers’ salaries, amounting to GHC103 million, as well as the electricity debts left behind by the previous operator, Blue Gold FGR.
In addition, the company has negotiated with the government to settle a $7 million minerals rights rent liability inherited from the former leaseholder.
“These efforts demonstrate our commitment to reviving the mine and making it a model of sustainable mining and development,” the MD emphasized.
Mr. Appiah-Mensah outlined a five-year phase one strategy, under which Heath Goldfields plans to invest $205 million in underground mine redevelopment and the establishment of a sulphide processing plant, targeting annual production of 285,000 ounces of gold.
He noted that the immediate focus is on completing the dewatering of the underground mine by the first quarter of next year.
This process involves pumping out about 10 million liters of water daily, accumulated over years of neglect.
So far, water levels have been reduced by 75 feet, with refurbishment works nearing completion.
Heath Goldfields is not only 90% Ghanaian-owned but also 100% Ghanaian-managed, and it is fully committed to sustainable development. We are here to upgrade the mine and enrich lives through responsible mining,” he said.
He further revealed that the recommissioning of the processing plant and commencement of open-pit operations are on course.
“By having Ghanaian ownership and Ghanaian management and leadership, we’re giving practical meaning to President Mahama’s vision of deepening local content and local participation in the country’s mining sector.”
The Divisional Chief of Prestea Himan, Nana Nteboa Pra V, commended Heath Goldfields for the progress made so far and expressed optimism about the mine’s revival.
“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.”
Nana Nteboa assured the company of the chiefs’ and community’s full support, noting that the revival of the mine presents renewed hope for Prestea and its people.
Commending Heath Goldfields’ visible progress, he added, “Within this short period, they are really working hard to bring the mine back to life.”
ALSO READ: