Employees at Gold Fields’ Damang Mines are planning to stage a march to government offices to demand assurances regarding their jobs after the government rejected the company’s request to extend the mine’s lease, set to expire on April 18.
Despite claims of extensive discussions between the company and relevant authorities, the government’s decision not to renew the lease has left more than 1,000 workers facing uncertainty, with their livelihoods now at risk.
The Ghana Mine Workers’ Union has stated that the march is aimed at urging the government to provide clear solutions for the affected workers and to address the wider economic consequences of the mine’s shutdown.
In an interview with Citi News, Abdul-Moomin Gbana, General Secretary of the Union, warned that the government’s decision could lead to serious economic disruption and urged the authorities to reconsider their position.
“Right now, it is clear that if the government stands by this decision, we will lose our incomes and livelihoods,” Gbana said.
“If this happens, we will have no choice but to march to the government and demand that our rights and livelihoods be safeguarded.”
He further pointed out, “Before making such a significant decision, the government must fully understand the implications. If it recognises that over a thousand workers are likely to be affected, it should carefully consider the long-term impact of its choice on these workers.”
