The government has announced the termination of the mining leases held by FGR Bogoso Prestea Mining Limited. This decision was made following recommendations from the Minerals Commission and the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. The announcement was issued in a statement signed by Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.
The termination follows a series of events that began in August 2023 when FGR Bogoso Prestea Mining Limited was cautioned about several breaches related to its mining operations. The Minerals Commission advised the company to address these issues. Despite this, further reviews and stakeholder engagement led to the decision to terminate the leases.
The termination comes amidst protests and concerns raised by various stakeholders, including the Ghana Mine Workers Union. Over 400 members of the union picketed at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, demanding the end of FGR Bogoso Prestea’s mining leases. The union cited poor working conditions and the company’s failure to meet critical operational obligations, including debt repayments, as primary reasons for their protest.
The decision to terminate the leases was made after a thorough review of reports from the Minerals Commission and a Ministerial Committee that was constituted to evaluate the company’s operations. The statement from Minister Jinapor noted that the decision was made after extensive engagement with all relevant stakeholders.
In his statement, Jinapor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the efficient and sustainable management of the country’s natural resources. He emphasized that the government’s actions are guided by principles of transparency, integrity, and good faith, aiming to benefit the Ghanaian people.
The termination of FGR Bogoso Prestea Mining Limited’s leases marks a significant step in addressing the concerns raised about the company’s operations and ensuring better management of Ghana’s mining sector.
