Lands and Mines Watch Ghana commends the Hon. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for his decisive, transparent, and legally grounded approach in managing the impending expiration of the Damang Mine lease.
We particularly applaud the Minister’s proactive steps in triggering the provisions of Minerals and Mining (General) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2176) to guide the competitive tendering process. This demonstrates a firm commitment to due process, regulatory compliance, and the protection of Ghana’s national interest in the extractive sector.
The issuance of formal notices to interested parties and the initiation of an independent technical and financial assessment further reinforce the credibility and integrity of the process. These actions are consistent with global best practices in mineral resource governance and send a strong signal to both domestic and international investors that Ghana remains a stable, predictable, and transparent mining jurisdiction.
Lands and Mines Watch Ghana views this approach as a critical step toward: Safeguarding jobs and local economic stability in host communities; Ensuring value maximization from Ghana’s mineral resources;
Promoting accountability and competitive efficiency in the allocation of mining rights; and Advancing Ghanaian participation and long-term sector sustainability. While maintaining our commitment to transparency and fairness, we strongly recommend E&P as a highly capable and credible entity for consideration in the Damang lease bid process.
Our recommendation is based on demonstrated technical expertise, operational efficiency, and alignment with Ghana’s local content and value addition objectives.
We urge the Ministry to sustain this transparent process through to its conclusion and ensure that the final award reflects the best interests of the Ghanaian people.
Lands and Mines Watch Ghana remains committed to supporting policies and actions that promote responsible resource governance, investor confidence, and sustainable national development.
SIGNED
Kwame Owusu Danso, Esq.
Executive Director
Lands and Mines Watch Ghana
Cc: All Media Houses