The Media Coalition for Good Governance (MCGG) has praised the government for awarding the Damang Mining Lease to Engineers and Planners Ltd (E&P), a wholly Ghanaian-owned company led by businessman Ibrahim Mahama.
The decision followed a rigorous, competitive bidding process overseen by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
In a statement issued by the MCGG, the Minsiter for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah confirmed on April 7, 2026 that he upheld the recommendations of a specialized Tender Committee that evaluated all submitted bids.
The committee selected E&P after it emerged as the most technically and financially capable bidder from four competing companies.
E&P was the only bidder to meet stringent financial requirements, providing evidence of access to financing exceeding the minimum USD 500 million threshold.
E&P demonstrated exceptional capacity to manage and sustain the Damang mine for at least the next decade, backed by a deep understanding of the mine’s geology and infrastructure and a comprehensive operational plan.
The selection adhered to LI 2176 and was conducted in two phases.
In the initial compliance stage, two firms; Marijoma Mining Services Ltd and Vortex Resources Mining Group, were disqualified for failing to meet documentation requirements.
Heath Goldfields Ltd also failed to achieve the minimum technical score, leading to its disqualification.
MCGG noted that the decision strengthens local participation in Ghana’s extractive sector and promotes local content, economic resilience, and industrial sustainability.
The Minerals Commission has been directed to finalize regulatory processes to formalize the lease and ensure a smooth transition into the next operational phase, expected to span at least ten years.
The coalition urged stakeholders to support the decision in the national interest and avoid misinformation that could undermine confidence in Ghanaian enterprises.
Source: Kwadwo Baffour Atuahene
