Lands Minister issues 120-day ultimatum to FGR to revamp its mining operations

The government has instructed Future Global Resources Limited (FGR) to swiftly overhaul its mining operations.

This directive comes in response to a picketing protest organized by the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU) of the TUC-Ghana at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources on Thursday, April 25.

“The Company is to submit evidence, to the satisfaction of the Minister and the Minerals Commission, of financial resources available to pay creditors and operate the Mine, within the said one hundred and twenty (120) days, and to ensure that the Mine is fully operational before the expiration of the said one hundred and twenty (120) days,” a statement from the Lands Ministry read.

In a statement released on Sunday, April 14, 2024, the General Secretary of the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU), Abdul-Moomin Gbana, clarified that the protest aimed to urge the government to revoke the mining lease of Future Global Resources Limited, the operators of the Bogoso-Prestea Mines.

The union argues that since assuming control of the mine in 2020, Future Global Resources has not demonstrated sufficient financial capability to effectively manage it.

Despite a recommendation from the Minerals Commission to the Minister of Lands & Natural Resources to revoke the license, it has not yet been done.

During the picketing at the Lands Ministry, the government, represented by Lands Minister Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, acknowledged the concerns of the union and ordered FGR to address them immediately.

Mr Jinapor assured the aggrieved workers of the government’s commitment to improving their welfare. The directive to FGR came as a result of the pressure exerted by the GMWU, highlighting the power of collective action in addressing labor issues.

The union’s persistence in advocating for its members’ rights led to swift government action, demonstrating the significance of organized labor in the country’s governance.

In response to the government’s directive, Future Global Resources Limited is expected to take immediate steps to address the concerns raised by the GMWU.