The chiefs of the Apinto Divisional Council in Tarkwa have formally appealed to the Chief Executive Officer of Engineers & Planners, Ibrahim Mahama, to consider bidding for the Tarkwa Mine when the mining lease of Gold Fields Ghana expires in April 2027.
The traditional leaders said the move is part of efforts to ensure that Ghana’s mineral resources deliver greater benefits to citizens and contribute more significantly to national development.
Gold Fields Ghana, a subsidiary of South African mining company Gold Fields, has operated the Tarkwa Mine since 1993.
By the time the current lease expires in 2027, the company would have been involved in mining operations in the area for about 34 years.
In their appeal, the Apinto chiefs called for a serious national conversation on the future ownership and management of Ghana’s natural resources, stressing that local participation in the mining sector must be prioritised.
They argued that the country’s resources should be structured in a manner that maximises benefits for Ghanaians, including host communities.
The chiefs cautioned against what they described as unnecessary political debates surrounding the issue, insisting that the focus should remain on securing the long-term interests of Ghana and its people.
They expressed the hope that capable Ghanaian-owned companies would take advantage of opportunities in the mining sector to promote local ownership, create jobs, and support economic growth.
