Prestea and Bogoso mines: Complete payment of outstanding salaries not later than May 30 — Gov’t orders FGR

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has given Future Global Resources (FGR) a firm deadline of May 30, to complete payment of all outstanding salaries owed to workers at its Prestea and Bogoso mines.

In a statement issued on Thursday, April 25, the Ministry said FGR has been conditionally approved to restructure and raise $150 million to revamp operations at the mines.

However, one of the key conditions is that the company must start paying December and January salaries immediately and clear all unpaid wages by May 30.

"Additionally, the Company has been given two weeks to commence the payment of all outstanding salaries owed to workers, and to complete the payment of outstanding salaries not later than 30th May, 2024," the statement read in part.

The directive comes after FGR halted mining activities at Prestea and Bogoso last December, owing salaries to hundreds of workers.

The shutdown left many mine-dependent communities in economic turmoil.

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Jinapor, met with protesting mine workers' union representatives on Thursday.

He said the government is committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the welfare of miners.

"Should the [Company] fail to meet any of the above conditions, the Conditional Approval given shall be deemed revoked, and the Mining Leases terminated, without further recourse to the [Company]," the minister warned in the statement.

The Ministry said it will hold fortnightly meetings with FGR to track progress in clearing unpaid wages and revamping mine operations.