Newmont Ahafo North calls for gov’t support amid rising encroachment and speculative claims

By Eugene Davis

Charles Bissue, General Manager of Newmont Ahafo North, has urged government and regulators to intervene in addressing persistent encroachment by illegal miners, warning that the practice poses severe safety risks and disrupts operations.

Speaking at the 2025 West African Mining & Power Exhibition in Accra, Mr. Bissue noted:

“Despite significant progress, persistent encroachment by illegal miners continues to endanger our workforce through violent attacks, increase tensions, and disrupt operations—driving up costs and threatening project timelines.”

He also highlighted the rise in speculative activity, including unauthorized structures and land claims even after areas have been formally declared as mining concessions. These, he said, are often followed by compensation demands, complicating project execution.

“To unlock the full value of Ghana’s mining sector, we need collaborative action from government, regulators, and host communities,” Mr. Bissue stressed.

Justifying the Ahafo North Project

Despite these setbacks, he reinforced the company’s commitment to developing the Ahafo North mine, citing its strategic and operational value.

“We are developing Ahafo North because it makes strong strategic sense. Located next to Ahafo South, it allows us to leverage existing infrastructure, logistics, and skilled labor,” he said.

Progress on Resettlement

Mr. Bissue shared updates on the resettlement program, emphasizing community collaboration and transparency. All 217 houses under Phase A are under construction, guided by the Resettlement Negotiation Committee, which includes representatives from all five host communities.

Five key agreements have been signed to that effect including; Structure Rates – fair compensation for physical assets,deprivation of Land Use – economic displacement provisions, site selection – resettlement locations, housing design – culturally appropriate housing, eligibility criteria – clear qualification standards for resettlement

“The Ahafo North project will deepen our economic contribution to Ghana for decades, benefiting shareholders, communities, and the nation,” he concluded.

The Ahafo North is an open-pit mine, with potential for underground development, has an estimated mine life of 14 years and could extend beyond 2040. It is expected to produce 230,000 to 300,000 ounces of gold annually.

It is expected to have 2,000+ Ghanaian jobs in full operation (direct and indirect) and serve as a boost for Ghanaian contractor/ supplier focus  to enhance local content and fiscal payments to government.