Omanghana
Four months after transitioning to indigenous Ghanaian ownership, the Damang Gold Mine has begun delivering employment opportunities and infrastructure projects across its host communities.
The mine is now operated by Damang Gold Mine Limited through Engineers and Planners, a Ghanaian-owned company associated with businessman Ibrahim Mahama.
The transition followed the handover of the concession by South African mining company Gold Fields on April 18, 2026. Since assuming control, the new management has focused on local recruitment, Ghanaian participation in management and community infrastructure development.
The early initiatives have attracted cautious optimism from chiefs and residents, who say the projects demonstrate progress toward fulfilling promises made during the takeover.
DGML committed to recruiting 60% of its workforce from communities surrounding the mine. Nearly 400 residents have since passed through different stages of the company’s employment process.
Out of that number, 180 people have completed the recruitment process and started work at the mine. Another 135 candidates are undergoing pre-employment medical examinations and induction as they approach the final stages of recruitment.
An additional 85 applicants have completed interviews and are awaiting the outcome of their applications.
The available positions cover several areas of the mine’s operations, including equipment maintenance, heavy-duty vehicle driving, security and general labor.
Traditional leaders have also welcomed the appointment of Ghanaian professionals to important operational and management positions. They believe the development demonstrates that local professionals possess the expertise required to manage major mining operations.
Community leaders said local ownership should create opportunities beyond direct employment by increasing the participation of Ghanaian contractors, suppliers, technicians and service providers in the mine’s value chain.
Nana Kwabena Amponsah IV, chief of the Bosomtwi Divisional Council, outlined the progress during a recent press conference. He said several commitments made by the new owners had already moved from planning to visible implementation.
Earthworks have begun at the Huni waste dump site for the construction of a proposed airstrip. Ibrahim Mahama reportedly pledged to complete the facility within six months of the mine’s handover.
If completed, the airstrip could improve access to the mining area and support the movement of personnel and essential supplies.
Work is also underway on the Damang-to-Subri road corridor. The route is considered important to communities in the mining enclave because it connects them with wider commercial centers, including Cape Coast.
Improving the road could reduce travel difficulties, support the transportation of goods and enhance access to health care, education and other essential services.
Preparatory work and community consultations have also commenced for three astroturf sports parks to be constructed in Subri, Damang and Huni Valley.
The proposed recreational facilities are expected to provide young people with safer spaces for sports and community activities while supporting the identification and development of local sporting talent.
Although the chiefs praised the progress recorded during the first four months, they emphasized that the long-term success of the transition would depend on sustained investment.
They said the new ownership model must continue building local skills, awarding contracts to qualified Ghanaian businesses and investing in projects that produce lasting benefits for mining communities.
Residents are expected to monitor whether the employment targets are maintained and whether the airstrip, road and sports facilities are completed according to schedule.
For many community members, the Damang transition represents a significant test of whether indigenous ownership of a major mine can translate Ghana’s mineral resources into broader employment, infrastructure and economic opportunities.
Source: Omanghana
