The youth of the Damang mine catchment area have thrown their full support behind the Government of Ghana’s decision not to renew the mining lease of Gold Fields Ghana Ltd.
The group, calling itself Concernd Youth of Damang are citing over decade-long track record of unmet promises, marginalisation, and community neglect. At a press conference held on April 16, 2025, the Concerned Youth of Damang outlined nine compelling reasons why they welcome the company’s exit after 25 years of operations in the area.
1. Minimal Economic Impact on Locals
Despite early promises, well-paying jobs at the mine largely went to outsiders. Locals were left with casual, low-paying roles through subcontractors. Training and internship opportunities reportedly favoured relatives of company executives, sidelining youth in the catchment area.
2. Neglect of Social Infrastructure
The youth claim the company failed to build a single hospital in the area, unlike competitors like Newmont Ghana. Roads in Huni Valley, Aboso, and Bompieso remain in terrible condition, and resettled communities still lack basic services like clean water and sanitation.
3. Weak Community Engagement
Gold Fields, the youth allege, has maintained poor transparency and engagement with locals. Indigenous employees were frequently targeted in redundancy exercises, and the community had limited means to hold the company accountable.
4. Dwindling Operations Indicate Imminent Exit
With no exploration activities, reliance on stockpiles, and mass demobilisation of contractors, the youth argue that the Damang site is effectively shutting down. They question why a lease renewal is even under consideration if the company is already winding down.
5. Discriminatory Practices and Community Interference
There are reports of biased treatment within the company’s operations and interference in chieftaincy matters. Youth were evicted from unused lands under controversial conditions, worsening trust between the company and the community.
7. Breach of 2015 Stability Agreement
Under a 2015 agreement, Gold Fields received tax incentives in exchange for promised developments. This included road construction, water systems, and a hospital. Most of these promises remain unfulfilled, reinforcing the youth’s claim of broken trust.
In closing, the Concerned Youth of Damang emphasised that they are not against mining but demand partnerships that prioritise inclusion, local development, and accountability.
“The people of the Damang catchment area deserve better… We demand a mining partnership that respects, uplifts, and invests in the communities it affects.”
The Gold Fields era in Damang may have come to an end as they exited the mine on April 18 and the subsequent takeover by the government on April 19, but for the youth, this is just the beginning of a new and hopefully more equitable chapter.
