Underground Mining Alliance workers allege health risks and benefit denials

Workers at the Underground Mining Alliance (UMA) in Obuasi, located in the Ashanti Region, have raised allegations regarding occupational health risks and the denial of contractually promised benefits. Many employees, who joined the company in 2019, report developing severe bone-related conditions and back pain attributed to underground mining work.

Aggrieved staff claim that UMA has failed to adhere to agreements requiring monthly medical attention and semi-annual health assessments by the Ghana Medical Board. While workers allege that those deemed unfit by the board should receive severance payments to support their medical treatment and transition, they claim the company has instead placed them on half-salary home leave. Some workers reported receiving only Ghc2,000 monthly for extended periods, while alleging that the company has hired new staff to fill their vacated positions.