Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has officially terminated the mining leases of FGR Bogoso Prestea Mining Limited.
This decision, announced on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, was based on recommendations from the Minerals Commission and the Attorney-General as well as pressure mounted by the Ghana Mine Workers Union (GAWU) demonstration in the early hours of that faithful Wednesday.
The Ministry further explained that the termination followed thorough reviews of reports from the Minerals Commission, a Ministerial Committee, along with consultations with relevant stakeholders.
“The Minister responsible for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, MP, acting on the advice and recommendation of the Minerals Commission and the Attorney-General, under article 88 of the Constitution, sections 5(1), 68(1) and 100(2) of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), and regulation 200(1) of the Minerals and Mining (Licensing) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2176), has terminated the mining leases granted to FGR Bogoso Prestea Limited (the Company), and directed the Minerals Commission to issue a notice of termination to the Company, under regulation 200(4) of L.I. 2176.”
The decision was made after reviewing various reports and engaging extensively with all stakeholders involved.
Earlier this year, the Ghana Mine Workers Union (GMWU) and over 400 of its members staged a demonstration at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, demanding action against the company due to its inactivity, which was affecting the community’s livelihood. In response, the Ministry assured the union and workers of its commitment to safeguarding their interests and the well-being of the Bogoso-Prestea communities.
A committee was established to investigate the situation, leading to the termination of the mining leases.
In February, traditional leaders in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality also protested against Future Global Resources (FGR) for failing to revamp the Bogoso Prestea mine as promised when they took over the concession from Golden Star Resources in September 2021. The chiefs were frustrated with the government and mining regulators for not addressing the situation despite several appeals.
