The Paramount Chief of Wassa Fiase has called on Engineers & Planners (E&P), owned by Ibrahim Mahama, to strictly follow through on its community development commitments as the company prepares to take over operations at the Damang Mine.
The Chief made the appeal during an interview featured on the official Facebook platform of TV3 Ghana. He stressed the importance of responsible mining and urged the company to ensure that its activities benefit the communities hosting the mining operations.
The remarks followed the government’s decision to officially award the Damang mining concession to Engineers & Planners after the company emerged as the successful bidder in a competitive tender process conducted under Regulation 258 of the Minerals and Mining (Licensing) Regulations, 2012.
The tender process was initiated by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources after Gold Fields’ mining lease for Damang expired and was not renewed in 2025. A Tender Committee was subsequently established to oversee the process.
Engineers & Planners already has experience working at the Damang Mine. Between 2004 and 2022, the company served as Gold Fields’ principal mining contractor, carrying out mining and haulage operations at the site.
The company has also secured significant financial backing to support its expansion plans. In February 2026, E&P obtained a $205 million syndicated financing facility from Stanbic Bank Ghana and Standard Bank of South Africa to support developments at both the Damang and Tarkwa mining operations. The formal transfer of the mine from Gold Fields to the state was scheduled for April 18, 2026.
In his message, the Paramount Chief urged Engineers & Planners to remain committed to the development plans presented to the local community.
“Adhere to the community development plans you have outlined,” the Paramount Chief of Wassa Fiase, who has traditional authority over the Damang area, told Engineers & Planners.
The development has received a positive response from many Ghanaians, particularly following the reported warm reception given by the chiefs and people of Wassa Fiase to Ibrahim Mahama’s company as it prepares to begin operations on their land.
The Chief’s call has also highlighted the importance of balancing mining activities with environmental responsibility, local development and the long-term interests of host communities.
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts!