Lands and Mines Watch Ghana (LMWG) has affirmed the technical and financial capability of Heath Goldfields Limited to sustainably operate the Bogoso and Prestea Mines in the Western Region, following a comprehensive independent assessment.
In a report signed by its Executive Director, Kwame Owusu Danso, LMWG concluded that the company possesses the required expertise, resources, and infrastructure to manage the complex underground mining operations effectively.
The assessment focused on operational efficiency and system performance, particularly the company’s ability to maintain critical underground systems necessary for safe and continuous mining activities.
LMWG highlighted Heath Goldfields’ strong operational readiness, sustained financial commitment, and adherence to industry standards. It specifically addressed concerns over underground water management, a critical component in deep-level mining.
The group dismissed allegations of inefficiency, stating there was no verifiable technical evidence to support such claims.
The underground mine network spans Levels 1 to 24 and requires the daily removal of approximately 10 million litres of water to maintain stability and allow safe access for operations.
According to LMWG’s field data, active dewatering is progressing between Levels 17 and 20, with water levels recorded at about two feet below Level 20. This, the report noted, reflects effective hydraulic control and significant progress in reclaiming deeper sections of the mine.
“The observed water drawdown confirms that the dewatering system is not only functional but performing efficiently and consistently,” the report stated.
The Technical and Operations Department of LMWG added that the pumping systems are stable, continuous, and supported by reliable energy supply and maintenance regimes — key indicators of operational discipline and capacity.
The findings were based on a rigorous validation framework, including field-level technical inspections, real-time water level measurements, analysis of operational data, and consultations with independent mining experts.
LMWG also assessed the company’s financial strength through investment patterns and operational expenditure, concluding that Heath Goldfields is well-positioned to sustain high-volume, continuous pumping operations.
While endorsing the company’s competence, LMWG emphasised the need for strict regulatory oversight. It urged the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission to enforce compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.
The group further stressed the importance of protecting the interests of workers and host communities as mining activities intensify.
Executive Director Kwame Owusu Danso reiterated LMWG’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and responsible resource governance within Ghana’s mining sector.
Heath Goldfields Limited, a Ghanaian-owned company, secured the mining lease for the historic Bogoso-Prestea concession following a legal process and has since commenced rehabilitation works, including dewatering and initial production efforts at the site.