The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), has given a firm assurance to workers of the Damang Gold Mine that their jobs will be protected during the impending ownership transition, as government moves to ensure stability and continuity in operations.
Speaking during a working visit to the mine on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 the Minister for Lands, accompanied by members of Parliament’s Select Committee on Lands and Natural Resources, emphasised that President John Dramani Mahama has issued clear and explicit directives that the transition process must prioritise the protection of workers, safeguard existing contracts and guarantee uninterrupted mining activities.
The visit forms part of broader proactive measures by government to closely monitor developments at the mine, ahead of the lease expiry, while also reassuring workers, contractors and other stakeholders of its commitment to maintaining stability within Ghana’s mining sector.
Mr Buah stressed that beyond protecting jobs, the transition presents an opportunity to reposition the Damang Mine for improved efficiency, enhanced safety standards and long-term operational sustainability.
He noted that the current lease held by Gold Fields is set to expire on April 18, 2026 and that government is putting in place comprehensive measures to ensure a smooth, orderly and seamless handover to a new operator.
“This assurance is coming from President John Dramani Mahama. His focus is on the people who work here, those who have families and need to be protected.
“So, I am here with Members of Parliament who will be involved in shaping the future lease arrangements to ensure an orderly transition, uninterrupted operations and the safety of miners, as well as all those with existing contractual obligations at the mine,” the Minister stated.
He further disclosed that Parliament was playing an active role in the transition process, particularly in shaping future lease agreements that will not only guarantee continuity, but also strengthen workers’ rights and position the mine for increased productivity and long-term viability.
According to the Minister, engagements with workers during the visit helped to allay widespread concerns and uncertainty surrounding the transition, while reinforcing confidence that the process will be peaceful, well-managed and free from disruptions or unrest.
Government’s decision not to renew the lease of Gold Fields, he explained, follows the company’s failure to comply with key provisions of the existing lease, particularly regarding the legal framework governing renewal applications.
Available records indicate that Gold Fields halted active mining operations at Damang in 2023 and transitioned to stockpile processing in 2024, with the remaining life of the mine estimated at approximately one year.
He noted that concerns over inadequate reinvestment in the mine, coupled with reported job cuts, raised serious questions about the company’s commitment to the long-term sustainability and viability of the asset.
Despite the decision not to renew the lease, the State granted a one-year extension to Gold Fields to facilitate a safe, structured, and orderly transition process, ensuring that operations are not abruptly disrupted.
As the April 18, 2026 deadline approaches, the Ministry has initiated a competitive bidding process to identify a new investor and operator for the mine.
Government has, however, signalled a strong preference for proposals that emphasise long-term investment, local participation, and Ghanaian-centred ownership.
The Ministry reiterated that the Damang Mine remains a strategic national asset, playing a critical role in Ghana’s gold production, export earnings, and employment generation.
Government’s approach to the transition, Mr Buah indicated, reflects a broader policy direction focused on responsible and sustainable resource management one that balances economic growth with job security and social stability, while positioning Ghana’s mining sector for growth.
The post Damang Mine Transition: Your Jobs Are 100% Assured! … Lands Minister tells workers appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.
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