The Bogoso-Prestea Mine has recorded its first gold pour after 24 months of complete shutdown, a major milestone, signaling the resumption of production and renewed economic activity in host communities.
The Managing Director of Heath Goldfields, Patrick Appiah Mensah, says the development marks a turning point for the historic mine, which had faced prolonged operational and financial difficulties.
Addressing members of the media Mr. Appiah Mensah described the gold pour as a symbol of resilience and responsible Ghanaian leadership, declaring that the mine is “no longer a story of decline.”
According to him, when Heath Goldfields assumed control of the mine a year ago, it inherited significant challenges. The Prestea Underground Mine was flooded, the process plant was non-operational, and the water treatment plant was not functioning. Salaries and contractor payments were in arrears, while utility debts ran into millions of dollars.
He said the company has since stabilised operations and restored critical infrastructure, leading to the successful gold pour.
Mr. Appiah Mensah disclosed that more than 1,400 people are now directly and indirectly employed, with approximately 80% drawn from host communities. Over 70 service providers are currently engaged, creating ripple effects across the local economy.
On legacy liabilities, he noted that the company has worked with the Ghana Mine Workers’ Union under a structured settlement arrangement and has paid more than GHS 139 million toward employee obligations.
Looking ahead, the Managing Director revealed that a feasibility study on the Prestea Underground Mine is being finalized to introduce modern, technology-driven mining methods aimed at improving safety, productivity and cost efficiency.
He further indicated that strategic community development initiatives focused on infrastructure, education, healthcare and enterprise development will soon be rolled out in host communities.
Heath Goldfields says the successful gold pour marks the beginning of what it describes as a new phase of structured revival and sustainable growth for the Bogoso-Prestea Mine.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com