The Media Coalition for Good Governance (MCGG) has commended the Government of Ghana for its decision to award the Damang Mining Lease to Engineers and Planners Ltd (E&P), a wholly Ghanaian-owned firm led by businessman Ibrahim Mahama.
The coalition expressed its belief that those opposing the decision are motivated by personal animosity and jealousy.
The Convener, Kwadwo Barfour, stated that the lease was awarded following a rigorous and highly competitive bidding process overseen by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
He argued that the selection of E&P was a direct result of the company proving itself as the most technically and financially capable entity to extend the operational life of the Damang Mine.
Speaking in an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Mr Barfour explained that the MCGG supports the outcome because the company demonstrated an exceptional capacity to manage and sustain the mine for at least the next decade.
He noted that the process was transparent and fair, allowing all bidders to submit proposals according to established guidelines, which ultimately saw the most qualified company emerge victorious.
E&P was selected from a pool of four competing companies that submitted proposals before the 31 March deadline.
According to the committee’s report, E&P was the only bidder to fully meet the stringent financial requirements, providing clear evidence of access to funding exceeding the minimum threshold of USD 500 million.
Furthermore, the company distinguished itself through a profound technical understanding of the Damang Mine’s geology and infrastructure, underpinned by a comprehensive and forward-looking operational plan.
Kwadwo Barfour indicated that the government’s decision represents a significant step toward strengthening local participation in Ghana’s extractive sector.
He remarked that “by selecting a competent indigenous company that meets international financing and operational standards, the state has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting local content, economic resilience, and long-term industrial sustainability.” Engineers and Planners Ltd has already demonstrated substantial operational capacity within Ghana’s mining sector, supported by significant investments in heavy-duty equipment and technical expertise.
The MCGG therefore urges all stakeholders to support this decision in the national interest and to avoid misinformation that may undermine confidence in Ghanaian enterprises capable of competing at the highest level. We believe strongly that those opposed to the decision are doing so because of the hatred they have for Ibrahim Mahama. They are jealous of him, and that is unhealthy.”
He added that E&P had been in existence well before President John Dramani Mahama assumed office for his first term. He stressed that under no circumstance should anyone make the ridiculous claims that the government manipulated the process to favour him simply because his brother was in office.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
