Mechanical engineer and certified inspecting engineer Obed Asamoah has expressed confidence in the future of Damang Gold Mine, saying the mine could remain operational for at least 15 more years if it receives the necessary investment.
Speaking at a special edition of Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen programme in Tarkwa on Thursday, October 22, he argued that the transition to a new investor should not be viewed as a fundamental change to the mine’s operations.
Mr Asamoah said the previous operator was primarily an investor, suggesting that the key requirement for sustaining the mine was adequate capital to support its operations and development.
“I realised that the previous operator was only an investor, so the only thing that has changed is the investor. All we need is the money to invest,” he said.
Based on his assessment, he maintained that Damang had considerable operational potential and could remain productive well beyond the next decade, provided the necessary resources were available.
“I can boldly tell you today that, based on my own limited findings, Damang Gold Mine can continue operating for the next 15 years and beyond. The mine has a future, so we should be confident,” he added.
Mr Asamoah also reflected on his initial reservations about the ability of a Ghanaian operator to manage the mine, saying his experience had changed his perspective.
He urged others not to hold onto his earlier doubts, arguing that local professionals were capable of managing major industrial operations.
“Do not follow my initial position of not believing in a Ghanaian operator. When I joined, I realised that the black man is capable of managing his own affairs,” he said.
The Damang Mine, formerly operated by Gold Fields Ghana Limited, was officially handed over to Engineers and Planners in April 2026, following the company’s successful bid for the concession.
The handover ceremony took place at the mine site on Saturday, April 18, 2026, where the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, performed the symbolic transfer.
This was after Gold Fields’ lease expired, and the government placed the concession under competitive tender supervised by the Minerals Commission.