Lands Minister terminates FGR Begoso Prestea Mining Limited leases

Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has officially canceled the mining leases of FGR Bogoso Prestea Mining Limited.

The announcement, made in a press statement on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, follows recommendations from the Minerals Commission and the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.

The lease termination adheres to article 88 of the Constitution, as well as 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).

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, 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 statement said.

Earlier this year, on April 25 and 26, 2024, the Ghana Mine Workers Union (GMWU) led a significant demonstration with over 400 members outside the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

The protest aimed to highlight concerns regarding operations at the Future Global Resources Bogoso-Prestea Mine and to call for the termination of the company’s mining leases.

In reaction, the Ministry pledged to address the union’s grievances and ensure the protection of both the workers’ interests and the welfare of the Bogoso-Prestea communities.