Accra: Gold Fields Ghana (GFG) has reaffirmed its commitment to partnership, responsible mining, and shared value at Tarkwa as it proceeds with the renewal of its Tarkwa mining lease. The company addressed recent media reports regarding the Apinto Divisional Council's stance on the lease renewal, emphasizing its long-standing partnership with traditional authorities and host communities, alongside its investments in community development, taxes, and royalties paid to the government.
According to Ghana News Agency, Gold Fields has maintained regular and transparent engagement with the Apinto Divisional Council and community representatives through platforms such as the Tarkwa Mine Community Consultative Committee and community forums. These structures regularly address matters related to the Mine's operation, including environmental management, community investment, and the renewal of mining leases.
The Tarkwa Mine significantly contributes to Ghana's economy, with 74 percent of every dollar generated remaining in the country through payments of taxes, royalties, dividends to the government, salaries, procurement from local businesses, and community investments. In 2025, Gold Fields paid approximately GHS5.8 billion to the government in corporate taxes, royalties, and dividends, while GHS8.8 billion was spent on local procurement, with GHS6.5 billion directed towards host community suppliers.
The Gold Fields Ghana Foundation has invested over US$110 million in community development, focusing on infrastructure, education, health, water and sanitation, agriculture, enterprise development, and environmental conservation. Notable projects include the Tarkwa-Damang asphalt road, the Tarkwa and Abosso Sports Stadium, 52 schools, scholarships, an AI Smart Lab, skills development programs, healthcare projects, and water infrastructure.
Employment statistics reveal that 70 percent of Tarkwa Mine employees come from host communities, and 99 percent of the workforce are Ghanaians. This underscores Gold Fields' commitment to providing opportunities for local people.
Environmental protection efforts include US$46 million invested in progressive rehabilitation since 2016, with an annual expenditure averaging US$4.2 million. Over 818,000 trees have been planted since 1998, with 33,000 currently being raised in the nursery. The mine has maintained ISO 14001 Environmental Management certification for 23 years and International Cyanide Management Code certification for 18 years.
Gold Fields submitted its application for the renewal of the Tarkwa mining leases in November 2025, with a lease-renewal proposal to the government in July 2026. While the proposal details are subject to further engagement, the company's approach is forward-looking, aiming to enhance investment in Tarkwa and support greater value sharing with stakeholders.
The company recently met with the Apinto Divisional Council and will continue constructive engagement, reinforcing its commitment to Ghana, Tarkwa, and the communities that have supported its operations for over three decades.