The Country Manager of the Natural Resource Governance Institute, Patrick Stephenson, has raised concerns over the speed at which ministerial approval was granted for the Damang mining lease awarded to Engineers and Planners Limited.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story, Mr Stephenson noted that the approval was reportedly issued just two hours after the Tender Committee submitted its recommendations—an unusually quick turnaround that could raise transparency issues.
“In two hours, that is a little too quick and may give cause for worry,” he stated.
He explained that Ghana’s mineral licensing process typically involves multiple layers of oversight, including technical committees, procurement bodies, and ministerial review. According to him, the stage following committee recommendations often lacks visibility, describing it as a “black box.”
Mr Stephenson called for greater transparency, urging authorities to publish the full assessment reports behind such decisions. “We would like to see the results of this work—the assessment—made public, not just the minister’s decision,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has defended the process, stating that Engineers and Planners Limited was selected through a rigorous and competitive tender in line with the Minerals and Mining (Licensing) Regulations.
The Ministry explained that the Tender Committee recommended the company as the top bidder based on its technical capacity, financial strength, and proposals to extend the lifespan of the Damang mine.
Out of four bids submitted, only Engineers and Planners Limited and one other company met the mandatory requirements, while the remaining bidders were disqualified or failed the technical evaluation.
The Ministry has since directed the Minerals Commission to complete all regulatory processes to formalise the lease, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the Damang mine continues to contribute significantly to Ghana’s economy.
