The Chief Executive Officer of Engineers and Planners Limited, Ibrahim Mahama, has publicly expressed gratitude to former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his role in facilitating the company’s successful acquisition of the Damang Mine concession.
Speaking at the official takeover ceremony on April 18, 2026, Mahama highlighted the critical support he received during the early stages of negotiations, describing the former president’s intervention as instrumental in keeping discussions on track.
According to him, the process dates back to 2022 when Gold Fields Ghana Limited signalled its intention to gradually exit the Damang Mine. This development triggered a series of engagements involving government and private stakeholders aimed at ensuring a smooth transition of the asset.
Mahama explained that government backing played a decisive role in advancing the negotiations, revealing that Akufo-Addo personally encouraged him to engage with Gold Fields to sustain operations at the mine.
He recalled being given the mandate to initiate discussions and work towards maintaining the viability of the concession, a move he said laid the foundation for what has now become a fully Ghanaian-led operation.
Beyond acknowledging political support, Mahama emphasised that the acquisition was underpinned by rigorous technical and financial preparation. Engineers and Planners, he noted, undertook a comprehensive feasibility study to assess the mine’s long-term potential before proceeding.
The company also secured substantial funding commitments from both local and international financial institutions, demonstrating confidence in its ability to manage one of Ghana’s key gold-producing assets.
Mahama further stressed that the transaction goes beyond a standard business deal, positioning it as part of a broader national effort to strengthen local participation in large-scale mining.
He pointed out that success in the Damang project would serve as proof that indigenous companies have the capacity, expertise and financial strength to operate complex mining ventures while delivering economic value.
The Damang Mine takeover marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s extractive sector, with expectations that the new management will sustain production, protect jobs and contribute to long-term industry growth.
