Hot SourceThe Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has issued a stop work notice to Heath Goldfields, directing the company to immediately cease all mining operations at its Bogoso-Prestea site.
The directive, which took effect on 24 June 2025, was issued following a thorough inspection by the Minerals Commission and a working visit by the sector Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
According to a statement released by the Ministry, the decision was taken in line with Regulation 22 of the Minerals and Mining (Health, Safety, and Technical) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2182). Heath Goldfields has been granted a 45-day window to address all breaches and continue essential services as outlined by the Chief Inspector of Mines.
The stop work notice follows the company’s failure to meet operational and regulatory standards. Investigations revealed deteriorated land and plant conditions, a non-operational Process Water Treatment Plant, and a poorly maintained Tailings Storage Facility. The site was also found to be overrun by illegal mining activities in certain areas.
Further assessments indicated that the company had defaulted on its contractual obligations, particularly under Section 1.18 of its revised Strategic Mine Development Plan. It was also found to have transported gold-bearing concentrates without obtaining prior written approval from the Ghana Geological Survey Authority and the Minerals Commission, violating Clause 7 of its mining lease.
In addition, Heath Goldfields is reportedly facing severe operational and financial challenges, including the non-payment of staff salaries. The Ministry revealed that concerned workers had petitioned the Minister over various grievances, prompting an inspection visit to the site on 23 May 2025.
As a result of these breaches, the Ministry has granted Heath Goldfields a 120-day remediation period to rectify all violations, as stipulated under Regulation 200(3) of L.I. 2176 and Clause 27(b) of the Mining Lease Agreement. Failure to comply within this period will result in the termination of the company’s mining licence.
The Ministry emphasised its commitment to ensuring that mining operations in Ghana adhere to the highest standards of safety, environmental sustainability, and legal compliance.
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