As the mining lease for the Damang Mine approaches its scheduled expiry on 18 April 2026, the Government of Ghana has outlined a series of measures aimed at safeguarding employment and ensuring continuity of operations at one of the country’s principal gold assets.
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah‑Kofi Buah, confirmed that the lease held by Abosso Goldfields Limited, a subsidiary of Gold Fields Limited, is due to lapse following the completion of a one‑year extension granted by the state. The ministry’s press release reiterated the administration’s view that the Damang Mine “remains a key national asset,” with sustained potential to contribute to gold output, export receipts, and jobs in the Western Region.
In a statement issued by the ministry, officials indicated that the government has “initiated measures to safeguard jobs” and to maintain essential service contracts ahead of the lease termination. These steps form part of efforts to position the asset for a competitive bidding process designed to attract a credible investor and operator capable of managing the mine beyond the transition period.
The government’s initiative aims to strike a balance between operational stability and advancing long‑term Ghanaian‑centred investment. The process would support efforts to secure an operator through open competition, reinforcing the state’s commitment to promoting local participation and ownership while preserving the mine’s contribution to national development.
These actions are aligned with broader sector objectives, particularly in preventing disruption to production and protecting supply chain arrangements that underpin employment. The government has affirmed that continuity of operations, preservation of service agreements, and certainty for the workforce are priorities as part of the transition framework.
The ministry also pledged to uphold transparency and accountable stewardship throughout the process, emphasising that the transition at Damang will align with national development goals and contribute to a sustainable, Ghana‑driven growth trajectory for the mining sector.
