The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has embarked on a pivotal working visit to the Bogoso-Prestea Mines in the Western Region to assess ongoing operations and engage with stakeholders, underscoring the government’s unwavering dedication to revitalizing the mining sector and improving workers’ welfare.
During his interaction with mine workers, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah listened attentively to their concerns, which ranged from safety standards and salary conditions to job security and long-term operational plans. He assured them that the government is taking proactive steps to address their issues and develop sustainable policies that benefit workers and local communities alike.
“This visit is not just symbolic. It reflects the government’s active commitment to a mining industry that prioritizes its workers, promotes responsible practices, and contributes significantly to our national development goals.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
The Bogoso-Prestea Mines, long regarded as a strategic national mining asset, have faced operational and financial challenges over the past decade, resulting in unstable employment, reduced output, and community grievances.
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah emphasized the government’s resolve to implement robust reforms to stabilize operations, restore productivity, and maximize the sector’s contribution to GDP.
“The people of Prestea-Huni Valley deserve a mining operation that works for them, not just one that extracts from them.
“Our vision is to see this mine flourish again, providing jobs, boosting local economies, and leading in responsible mining practices.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
As part of the visit, the Minister paid a courtesy call on Nana Nteboa Pra IV, Divisional Chief of the Prestea-Heman Traditional Area. Their discussions centered on the state of the mine, community relations, and the broader implications of mining operations on traditional lands.
Nana Nteboa Pra IV expressed appreciation for the Minister’s engagement, noting that the traditional council is keen on seeing mining activities conducted in a manner that respects local customs, protects the environment, and supports development projects.
“We are ready to work with the government to ensure that the mine becomes a force for good in our community,” the Chief affirmed.
Cooperative Mining Scheme
In elaborating on the government’s policy direction, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted the Cooperative Mining Scheme (CMS) as a core initiative to restructure small-scale mining. This model promotes responsible, regulated, and community-inclusive mining while offering technical and financial support to legal miners.
“Our Cooperative Mining Scheme is a game-changer. It gives small-scale miners access to equipment, training, and formal markets while reducing the environmental impact and ensuring that revenue benefits stay within our communities.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
He encouraged illegal miners in the area to transition into cooperative frameworks, noting that the Ministry is actively facilitating licensing and capacity-building opportunities.
The Minister reiterated that the future of mining in Ghana must be grounded in sustainability, transparency, and human-centered development. He stressed that while resource extraction remains important, the human and environmental costs must be minimized through responsible governance.
“Revitalizing the mining sector is not just about numbers; it’s about people and the planet.
“We are committed to ensuring that every policy we roll out enhances the lives of those at the heart of this industry.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah also announced that a dedicated task force will be established to monitor the progress of reforms at Bogoso-Prestea and ensure continuous stakeholder engagement.
The Minister’s visit to the Bogoso-Prestea Mines marks a significant step in the government’s agenda to transform Ghana’s extractive sector. By listening directly to workers, engaging with traditional leaders, and reinforcing the pillars of sustainable and inclusive mining, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah has sent a clear signal: the future of Ghana’s mining industry will be built on collaboration, transparency, and shared prosperity.
The people of Prestea-Huni Valley and the broader Western Region can now look forward to a renewed era of opportunity—one where the mineral wealth beneath their feet translates into tangible improvements in their daily lives.
READ ALSO: Why Ghana’s Cedi Rally Faces Structural Limits – Bright Simons
