The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has welcomed the resumption of operations at the Prestea Sankofa Gold Mine after about nine months of inactivity.
The Minister made the remarks when he visited the mine as part of his ongoing engagement with key mining companies and strategic facilities in the Western Region.
He said the prolonged shutdown of the plant had been a concern, particularly because the company had to meet its obligations to staff and other stakeholders despite not generating revenue.
Mr. Nelson commended the Managing Director and his management team for keeping the company running through the difficult period, describing the return of the plant to operation as a positive development for the company, its workers and the surrounding community.
He said the resumption of operations would help generate revenue for the company and create opportunities for employment and community development.
He expressed optimism that the mine would continue on a path of progress, with improved management, motivated staff and the potential to expand its operations and employ more people.
He said the collective efforts of management, workers, government and other stakeholders would be crucial to ensuring that the Prestea Sankofa Gold Mine remains operational and continues to contribute to the development of the region.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of Prestea Sankofa Gold Mine, Alhaji Ishaq Dauda, says the mine’s operations were suspended for nearly nine months due to challenges associated with the tailings dam, resulting in significant financial pressure on the company.
He said management had to continue paying salaries and meeting other financial obligations during the period when the mine was not producing.
Alhaji Dauda said management was therefore determined to complete the new tailings dam facility by the end of the year to prevent another shutdown.
He explained that the existing facility has limitations which could affect the company’s ability to operate at full capacity, but the new facility would provide the opportunity for the mine to expand its operations.
The Managing Director said the new facility is currently about 80 percent complete, with management working to ensure that the remaining works are completed within the targeted period.
Source: Nana Fynn
