(Ecofin Agency) - In December 2024, Gold Fields applied to extend the mining lease for its Damang gold mine in Ghana, but the government rejected the request, leaving the mine's future uncertain.

Gold Fields faces an imminent shutdown of its Damang gold mine in Ghana after the government denied its request to extend the mining lease, which expires on Friday, April 18. The South African mining company confirmed the development in a memo released on Monday, April 14, stating it has been instructed to vacate the site. This decision leaves the future of the mine and its workforce uncertain.

Gold Fields employs 5,781 people in Ghana, including 2,000 workers and subcontractors at Damang. The mine has been nearing the end of its operational life since 2023, with mining activities already ceased and only stockpiles being processed. 

Despite extensive engagement with authorities to ensure its lease extension application met statutory requirements, the company failed to secure approval. Gold Fields continues discussions with the government but has yet to announce any plans for reintegrating affected employees.

The shutdown amplifies uncertainty for workers at Damang, as Gold Fields has not outlined any support measures for them. The company originally planned to continue operations beyond April 2025 but now faces a forced exit. 

Ghana’s Damang mine, operated by Gold Fields alongside the larger Tarkwa project, achieved a total production of 671,800 ounces of gold in 2024.

This article was initially published in French by Aurel Sèdjro Houenou

Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum