Lands Minister terminates FGR Begoso Prestea Mining Limited leases
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 in a press statement on September 18, 2024, follows recommendations from both the Minerals Commission and the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.
The ministry stated that the move followed thorough reviews of reports from the Minerals Commission and a Ministerial Committee set up to assess the company’s operations, alongside 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, pursuant to 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, in accordance with regulation 200(4) of L.I. 2176.”
“The decision to terminate the mining leases was taken after reviewing various reports from the Minerals Commission as well as a Ministerial Committee constituted to review the operations of the Company, and after extensive engagement with all stakeholders involved in this matter.”
The Ghana Mine Workers Union (GMWU) staged a demonstration on April 25 and 26, 2024, at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources demanding action against the company.
Their protest aimed to highlight the government’s inaction regarding FGR Bogoso Prestea Mining Limited, which was impacting the community’s livelihood.
In response, the ministry assured the union and workers of its commitment to protecting their interests and the well-being of the Bogoso-Prestea communities.
A committee was formed to investigate the situation, ultimately leading to the termination of the mining leases.
In February, traditional leaders in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality also voiced their concerns about Future Global Resources (FGR) for not revitalizing the Bogoso Prestea mine as promised when they took over from Golden Star Resources in September 2021.
The chiefs expressed frustration with the government and mining regulators for their lack of intervention despite repeated appeals for action.