Accra: Lands and Mines Watch Ghana has commended the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for his decisive, transparent, and approach in managing the impending expiration of the Damang Mine lease.
According to Ghana News Agency, the organization praised the Minister for initiating the provisions of the Minerals and Mining (General) Regulations, 2012 (L.1. 2176) to guide the competitive tendering process. This step is seen as a demonstration of the government's commitment to due process, regulatory compliance, and the protection of national interests in Ghana's extractive sector.
A statement by Kwame Owusu Danso, Executive Director, highlighted the issuance of formal notices to interested parties and the initiation of an independent technical and financial assessment, which reinforced the credibility and integrity of the process. These actions align with global best practices in mineral resource governance and signal to investors that Ghana is a stable and transparent mining jurisdiction.
Lands and Mines Watch Ghana views this approach as crucial for safeguarding jobs and local economic stability, maximizing value from Ghana's mineral resources, promoting accountability, and ensuring competitive efficiency in the allocation of mining rights. The organization also emphasized the importance of advancing Ghanaian participation and ensuring long-term sector sustainability.
The statement recommended E and P as a credible entity for consideration in the Damang lease bid process, based on their technical expertise and alignment with Ghana's local content objectives. It urged the Ministry to maintain transparency throughout the process and ensure the final award reflects the interests of the Ghanaian people.
Lands and Mines Watch Ghana reiterated its commitment to supporting policies that promote responsible resource governance, investor confidence, and sustainable national development.