Ghanaian mining firm Engineers and Planners Limited has taken over operations of the Damang Mine, with its Chief Executive Officer, Ibrahim Mahama, pledging a wave of infrastructure investments aimed at transforming surrounding communities and boosting local economic activity.

The transition marks a significant shift in the management of one of Ghana’s major gold-producing assets, following a competitive bidding process supervised by the Minerals Commission after the expiration of the lease previously held by Gold Fields Ghana Limited.

At a handover ceremony held at the mine site on Saturday, April 18, 2026, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, performed the symbolic transfer, officially ushering in a new phase of operations under a wholly Ghanaian-owned company.

Speaking after the ceremony, Mr Mahama signalled an ambitious development agenda tied to the takeover, outlining plans that extend beyond mining into infrastructure and community development.

“I want to pledge this, and I want to say it for everybody to hear. I got a text from one of our young men in here. It says we should build astroturfs for all the communities, which we’re looking to do,” he said.

He added that the company was already considering major transport interventions to improve accessibility and stimulate economic growth in the area.

“We’ve applied for Damang to have an airport, and within six months, Damang will have an airport, such that we can fly to Accra easily. In the next two years, we’ll be able to drive from here to Cape Coast on a concrete road or a natural road,” he added.

Emphasising his commitment, Mr Mahama stressed that the plans were achievable and not mere rhetoric. “I beg you, this is not political talk. This is real talk,” he said.

He further underscored the broader vision behind the investment drive, positioning the takeover as a test case for Ghanaian capacity in managing large-scale mining operations and delivering tangible socio-economic benefits.

“I would say that, look, if we all put our minds together, this is a success story. And the plan I have for Damang Mine is not a joke. I just want to prove that we can invest in ourselves in this country,” he said.

The Damang Mine, located in the Western Region, has been a key contributor to Ghana’s mining sector for more than two decades. Its lease expired in April 2025, but the government granted a one-year extension to allow for a structured transition before the final handover in April 2026.

Authorities opted not to renew the lease, instead opening the concession to competitive tender in line with efforts to deepen local participation in the extractive industry. Engineers and Planners emerged as the successful bidder after meeting stringent technical, financial and regulatory requirements, including demonstrating access to at least $500 million in funding.

Government officials say the move is expected to sustain production, protect jobs and strengthen indigenous ownership within Ghana’s mining sector, while the new operator’s community-focused plans could redefine the relationship between mining companies and host communities.