The Wassa Fiase Traditional Council has unanimously urged government not to renew Gold Fields Ghana Limited’s Tarkwa mining lease, citing dissatisfaction with development in communities hosting the company’s operations.
The traditional leaders want a Ghanaian operator to take over, arguing that decades of mineral extraction have not delivered benefits proportionate to the wealth generated from their lands.
At a council meeting, the chiefs expressed frustration over what they described as neglect, unfulfilled promises and persistent development challenges.
They maintained that the decision on the mine’s future must give greater consideration to the welfare of affected communities.
Supporting the council’s position, the Chief of Mahamo, Nana Kobina Gyan II, rejected suggestions that the demand was motivated by hatred or external influence.
According to a TV3 report, he expressed confidence that Ghanaians could manage their own mineral resources if given the opportunity.
Other divisional chiefs backed the call, insisting that communities must see more tangible benefits from mining.
The council’s resolution comes ahead of the expiry of the Tarkwa mining leases in April 2027.
Gold Fields submitted its renewal application in November 2025, followed by a detailed proposal in July 2026.
Gold Fields’ position
Gold Fields has previously defended its contribution to Ghana and its host communities.
In a July 27 statement responding to earlier concerns from the Apinto Divisional Council, the company cited investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and enterprise development.
It maintained that its technical expertise, financial capacity and operational experience positioned it to lead the next phase of the Tarkwa Mine’s development.
The company also said its renewal proposal sought to expand local participation and strengthen community benefits.
That statement preceded the latest Wassa Fiase Traditional Council resolution.