MEDIA COALITION FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE COMMENDS GOVERNMENT ON
DAMANG MINING LEASE DECISION
The Media Coalition for Good Governance (MCGG) has commended the Government of Ghana for its decision to award the Damang Mining Lease to Engineers and Planners Ltd (E&P), a wholly Ghanaian-owned company led by businessman Ibrahim Mahama.
This decision follows a rigorous and highly competitive bidding process overseen by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, culminating in the selection of E&P as the most technically and financially capable entity to extend the operational life of the Damang Mine.
In an official statement issued on 7 April 2026, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, confirmed that he upheld the recommendations of a specialized Tender Committee tasked with evaluating all submitted bids.
The committee concluded that E&P demonstrated exceptional capacity to manage and sustain the mine for at least the next decade.E&P emerged as the successful bidder from a pool of four competing companies that submitted proposals before the 31 March deadline.
According to the committee’s report, E&P was the only bidder to fully meet the stringent financial requirements, providing clear evidence of access to financing exceeding the minimum threshold of USD 500 million.
Additionally, the company distinguished itself through its deep technical understanding of the Damang Mine’s geology and infrastructure, backed by a comprehensive and forwardlooking operational plan.
The report stated: “The Company demonstrated the highest capability to operate the Damang mine, substantiated by their submission of the most viable tender.” The selection process adhered strictly to the provisions of LI 2176 and was conducted in two phases.
During the initial mandatory compliance stage, two firms—Maripoma Mining Services Ltd and Vortex Resources Mining Group—were disqualified for failing to meet key documentation requirements, including tax, SSNIT, and VAT clearances.
This left Engineers and Planners Ltd and Heath Goldfields Ltd to proceed to the technical evaluation phase. However, Heath Goldfields Ltd did not achieve the minimum qualifying technical score of 80%, resulting in the disqualification of its bid before the financial stage.
MCGG notes that the government’s decision represents a significant step toward strengthening local participation in Ghana’s extractive sector. By selecting a competent indigenous company that meets international financing and operational standards, the state has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting local content, economic resilience, and long-term industrial sustainability.
The Coalition further highlights that Engineers and Planners Ltd has demonstrated substantial operational capacity within Ghana’s mining sector, supported by significant investments in heavy-duty equipment and technical expertise.
The Minerals Commission has been directed to complete all necessary regulatory processes to formalize the lease and ensure a smooth transition into the next phase of operations, which is expected to span at least ten years.
MCGG urges all stakeholders to support this decision in the national interest and to avoid misinformation that may undermine confidence in Ghanaian enterprises capable of competing at the highest level.
