The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has voiced deep disappointment following an inspection tour of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine, which has remained inactive for over a year and a half.
During his visit on Friday, May 23, 2025, the Minister was confronted with the worsening condition of the once-thriving mine, notably the flooding of its underground sections. This has raised serious concerns about the mine’s long-term viability and the potential loss of critical infrastructure.
Hon. Kofi Buah described the situation as “unacceptable,” especially given the mine’s historical economic significance to the people of Bogoso, Prestea, and surrounding areas. At its peak, the facility employed thousands of workers and served as a major economic engine for the region.
The Lands Minister was joined by key officials, including the Western Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Nelson, Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Matthew Ayeh, and Member of Parliament for Prestea Huni-Valley, Hon. Robert Wisdom Cudjoe. The team engaged with aggrieved workers who expressed frustration over the prolonged closure and uncertainty surrounding the mine’s future.
Workers raised concerns about the new management, which assumed control in November 2024 but has yet to demonstrate the financial strength or commitment necessary to restart operations. A pressing issue highlighted was the flooding caused by recent heavy rains, which experts warn could inflict irreversible damage if not addressed urgently.
The visiting dignitaries called for calm, with Hon. Joseph Nelson, Hon. Wisdom Cudjoe, and Hon. Matthew Ayeh assuring workers and residents that government is actively pursuing solutions to restore the mine’s operations. They encouraged stakeholders to remain hopeful, stressing that “there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
As Hon. Kofi Buah pledged to champion the mine’s revival at the national level, both workers and community members look forward to tangible action. However, with the rainy season intensifying, the urgency to intervene grows, narrowing the window for salvaging the Bogoso-Prestea Mine.
Source: Trinity Fm
