Heath Goldfields deserves support  – ARMD

By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY, Bogoso

The Association of Responsible Mining and Development (ARMD) has thrown its weight behind Heath Goldfields, urging government and stakeholders to support the company’s efforts at reviving the Bogoso-Prestea mine rather than undermine them.

According to the Association, progress made by the Ghanaian-owned firm within a short period demonstrates the potential of indigenous companies to turn around distressed mining assets when given the necessary backing.

Speaking at a press conference at Bogoso in the Prestea Huni Valley municipality, spokesperson for ARMD Thomas Ayam said the company’s performance since taking over operations underscores the importance of promoting local participation in the mining sector.

“We believe Ghana’s natural resources must be owned and managed by Ghanaians. The performance of Heath Goldfields so far shows that local participation in the mining sector can deliver results,” he stated.

Mr. Ayam noted that within just three months, the company has undertaken significant operational improvements – an achievement he said would typically take years, particularly for a mine that had been inactive for nearly two years.

Among the key milestones he highlighted is successfully de-watering the Prestea underground mine, where water levels had previously reached critical limits. He explained that continuous 24-hour de-watering efforts have significantly reduced water levels, clearing the path for a return to underground production.

He also pointed to revival of the processing plant as a major breakthrough. Following the restoration of power supply, extensive rehabilitation work was carried out to bring the facility back into operation.

“These efforts have not only restored operations but also created jobs and helped build the skills of many local people,” Mr. Ayam added.

Despite these gains, he expressed concern over what ARMD described as persistent interference and negative campaigns by certain individuals and groups claiming to represent the interests of Bogoso-Prestea communities.

He said the Association questions the motives of such groups, alleging that some may be driven by personal interests rather than the welfare of residents.

“It is worrying that individuals who publicly claim to be unemployed are able to fund expensive media engagements, frequent travel and sustained demonstrations. This raises serious questions,” he said.

He continued: “We are therefore calling on government to launch a full-scale investigation into the funding sources of these groups, amid suspicions of possible external influence aimed at undermining local participation in the mining sector.

“The Association warns that such actions, if left unchecked, could derail the progress made in reviving the mine and threaten broader efforts to promote Ghanaian ownership in the industry” he pointed out.

“At a time when Ghana is promoting local content and participation in mining, we must support indigenous companies to succeed. Ghanaian businesses must be encouraged, not discouraged,” Mr. Ayam emphasised.

The call for support comes alongside a renewed appeal for peace in the Bogoso-Prestea enclave. ARMD cautioned against a repeat of unrest that affected the area in 2024 and 2025, stressing that stability is essential for sustained development.

The group maintains that the mine must not become a battleground for competing interests, warning that selfish pursuits and external interference can undermine the steady progress being made.

It further highlighted the company’s commitment to local economic empowerment, noting that Heath Goldfields has prioritised the engagement of Ghanaian-owned and community-based businesses in its operations. This approach, ARMD said, ensures that value generated from the mine remains within the local economy.

Beyond mining activities, the Association pointed to early interventions in education, healthcare, sanitation and infrastructure as evidence of the company’s broader development agenda.

A recently signed employment agreement between the company and key stakeholders has also been welcomed as a step toward ensuring equitable distribution of benefits among host communities.

In addition, ARMD expressed optimism about the company’s five-year development plan – describing it as a roadmap for structured growth and long-term impact.

However, the Association stressed that sustained government support will be critical to protecting the investment and ensuring its success. It called on authorities to clamp down on unlawful interference while promoting collaboration between the company, traditional leaders and small-scale miners.

Such partnerships, ARMD noted, can create designated areas for responsible small-scale mining within the concession… thereby expanding livelihood opportunities for residents.

“The mine cannot employ everyone but, through structured engagement, more livelihoods can be supported within a regulated framework,” the statement said.

Reaffirming its confidence in Heath Goldfields, ARMD concluded that protecting indigenous investments is essential for the mining sector’s growth and development of host communities.

“Heath Goldfields has come to stay,” the Association declared, urging all stakeholders to prioritise peace, stability and collective progress in the Bogoso-Prestea enclave.

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