Former workers of the Bogoso-Prestea Gold Mine are calling on government to intervene urgently after accusing Heath Goldfields Limited (HGL), operators of the mine, of failing to pay their legally mandated benefits since their contracts were terminated. The aggrieved workers made the appeal at a press conference held on 19 November 2025.
Speaking at the event, the convener for the group, Gabriel Madobi, said more than a year after the mine changed ownership, several former employees remain unpaid. He said HGL has not fulfilled statutory obligations including provident fund arrears, severance packages, end-of-contract benefits, outstanding leave balances, and 2023 bonuses.
The workers allege that only about half of the affected staff have received their provident fund payments, leaving many struggling to survive. Some former employees are reported to be battling serious financial hardship, unable to afford food, medical care, or basic necessities. Others, according to the group, have died without receiving any of the benefits lawfully due them.
Citing Section 18 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), the workers emphasized that all remuneration and entitlements must be paid immediately upon termination of employment. They therefore rejected a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between HGL and the Ghana Mine Workers Union, insisting the agreement is not binding on them and does not override their rights guaranteed by law.
The group questioned the due diligence process that allowed Heath Goldfields Limited to take over the mine, alleging that authorities failed to properly assess the company’s financial capacity before granting the mining lease. They are urging the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Armah Kofi Buah, and relevant state institutions to take decisive action to compel HGL to settle all outstanding payments.
The former workers stated that if their concerns remain unaddressed, they will explore additional lawful actions to pursue their entitlements. They maintain that the situation has become a humanitarian issue and demand immediate government intervention to prevent further suffering within the mining community.
©ZM NEWS
