By Gifty Boateng
The Paramount Queen of the Wassa Fiase Traditional Area, Nana Abena Kunadjoa, has called for peaceful coexistence and community-focused operations as Engineers and Planners Limited takes over the Damang Mine.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony of the concession, she urged the company to go beyond mining activities and deliver tangible benefits to host communities, welcoming the new operators following their successful bid.
“As you take full responsibility, I remind you that your role goes beyond mining. Our communities look forward to real development, empowerment opportunities for our youth, improved healthcare and growth for local business. I also urge you to show respect to our traditions and customs. This land is sacred and must be respected,” she said.
The government confirmed Engineers and Planners Limited as the successful bidder for the Damang Gold Mine, following a competitive tender process supervised by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission.
According to the Ministry, four companies submitted bids by the March 31, 2026 deadline, but only Engineers and Planners Limited and Heath Goldfields Limited met the mandatory requirements, including proof of Ghanaian ownership and valid statutory clearances.
Two other firms, Maripoma Mining Services Ltd and Vortex Resources Mining Group, were disqualified for failing to meet the submission requirements.
Following the initial stage, the Tender Committee conducted a detailed technical and financial evaluation. Heath Goldfields Limited did not meet the minimum technical score of 80 per cent, and its financial proposal was not considered.
Engineers and Planners Limited, however, met all requirements and demonstrated strong financial capacity, securing access to $505 million in funding from Absa Bank and Stanbic Bank, exceeding the minimum threshold for the project.
The company recorded the highest combined technical and financial score of 93.15 per cent. The Tender Committee concluded that it has the expertise, experience and operational capacity to manage the Damang Mine and extend its lifespan beyond 10 years.