Wassa Fiase chiefs oppose renewal of Gold Fields’ Tarkwa mining lease, push for Ghanaian operator

The Wassa Fiase Traditional Council has urged the government not to renew Gold Fields Ghana Limited’s Tarkwa mining lease, calling instead for a Ghanaian operator to take over the mine when the current agreement expires.

The traditional authorities say decades of mineral extraction have failed to translate into meaningful development for communities hosting the mining operations, leaving residents dissatisfied with the benefits derived from their natural resources.

They have also raised concerns about alleged neglect, unfulfilled commitments and persistent development challenges, insisting that the interests of affected communities must be central to decisions about the mine’s future.

The Chief of Mahamo, Nana Kobina Gyan II, has dismissed suggestions that the demand is motivated by hostility towards Gold Fields or external influence, expressing confidence in the ability of Ghanaian companies to manage the country’s mineral resources.

“Government must listen to us. The people of Wassa Fiase have reached a consensus that Gold Fields has not done enough to benefit either Wassa Fiase or Apinto. We have made several attempts to engage the company through meetings, but our requests have not been received. So if you ask us, we believe it is time the mine is given to a Ghanaian investor.”

The council’s position comes ahead of the expiry of the Tarkwa mining leases in April 2027. Gold Fields submitted its renewal application in November 2025 and presented a detailed proposal in July 2026.

In an interview with Accra-based TV3, the chiefs unanimously endorsed the call for a Ghanaian operator, arguing that local communities deserve a greater share of the benefits from mining activities on their lands.

Gold Fields has previously defended its contribution to Ghana and communities hosting its operations.

In a July 27 statement responding to concerns raised by the Apinto Divisional Council, the company cited investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and enterprise development.

It also maintained that its technical expertise, financial resources and operational experience positioned it to lead the next phase of the Tarkwa Mine’s development, adding that its renewal proposal included measures to expand local participation and strengthen community benefits.