Damang Youth neutral on Damang Mine takeover

The Wassa-Damang Youth Association declared on Tuesday that it is not concerned about which company takes over the Damang Mine. According to Youth Leader Ebenezer Takyi, the group's priority is not the identity of the operator, but the development and welfare of host communities. Ebenezer Takyi stated, "Should the Government of Ghana, in its wisdom, hand over the Damang Mine to Engineers & Planners or any other competent entity, the youth of Wassa-Damang will respect that decision."

The association recognizes the competence and contributions of businessman, Dr. Ibrahim Mahama and his company in the mining and construction sectors, but their support is not exclusive. The youth leader stressed that whoever assumes operational control of the mine must place premium on sustaining and improving community development initiatives. The association disassociated itself from a group of individuals who recently petitioned authorities at Parliament, claiming to represent the people of Wassa-Damang and calling for the mine to be handed over to Engineers & Planners.

The association defended the track record of Gold Fields, which has operated the Damang Mine for the past 25 years, dismissing assertions that the company had done little for the area. Mr. Takyi outlined several development projects undertaken by the company, including the rehabilitation of the 33-kilometre Damang-Tarkwa road, extension of electricity to surrounding communities, and the provision of water systems and sanitation facilities. Gold Fields also provided apprenticeship programmes, heavy-duty equipment training, scholarships for over 800 beneficiaries, and support for cocoa farmers, as well as the construction of clinics and maternity blocks.