Following its decision to take operational management of Damang Mine following the leasing arrangement with Abosso Gold Fields expiring on April 18, 2025, the Ghanaian government has guaranteed job security to all employees.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, made this announcement, highlighting the government’s dedication to maintaining operations, protecting jobs, and upholding all legitimate service contracts.
“We want to assure the hardworking employees, contractors, and service providers at Damang that your dedication has been the backbone of this mine, and it will remain indispensable.”
“All essential services, from security to healthcare and fuel supply to camp management, will continue without interruption. Valid contracts will be honored, wages paid, and operations sustained as we work to regularize arrangements under the state’s stewardship,” the minister stated.
The ruling comes after Gold Fields Limited subsidiary Abosso Goldfields Limited (AGL) failed to fulfill essential conditions for lease renewal.
The minister referenced
• Failure to declare verifiable mineral reserves
• The absence of a technical program outlining operational history and plans
• No budgetary allocation for exploration, undermining long-term viability
“Despite the challenges that led to our decision, we recognize the importance of Damang Mine to the local economy and the country as a whole. We are committed to ensuring that the mine continues to operate efficiently and effectively, with benefits accruing to the state and its citizens,” Hon. Buah added.
The government has laid out a thorough transition plan that consists of
Local Employment & Enterprise Priority: Strict adherence to Ghana’s Local Content Policy, favoring local workforce retention and procurement from Damang catchment-area businesses.
Safety & Asset Protection: Enforcement of rigorous protocols to safeguard operations and infrastructure.
Stakeholder Engagement: A dedicated transition team will liaise with workers, contractors, and community leaders to address concerns and provide updates.
“We are committed to transparency and accountability throughout this process. Regular updates will be provided to ensure all stakeholders are informed,” the minister affirmed.
The acquisition is a significant milestone in Ghana’s economic transformation since it guarantees that the country’s gold reserves will directly benefit its people and promote sustainable growth.
“Today’s decision will yield a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow. We are confident Damang Mine will continue to play a pivotal role in Ghana’s economic development.”
“Ghana remains a beacon of responsible investment and stability. While we remain open to foreign collaboration, we are clear on balancing investor interests with the long-term needs of our people.”
The government confirmed adherence to international investment protections and Ghana’s mining regulations, including the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah said he was confident Damang Mine would continue to contribute to the growth of the country.
Source: newsthemegh.com