The Council of Ashanti Regional Zongo Chiefs and Imams has called on Ghanaians to celebrate the takeover of the Damang Mines by Engineers and Planners, led by businessman Ibrahim Mahama, rather than politicise the development, which they describe as a landmark achievement in local participation in large-scale mining.
The appeal follows the successful acquisition of the Damang Mines concession from Gold Fields Ghana Limited by Engineers and Planners, a Ghanaian-owned firm headed by Mr Mahama.
The development has generated public debate, with some critics questioning the company’s capacity and linking the award to Mr Mahama’s familial ties to the President. However, the Council maintains that such concerns risk overshadowing what it considers a significant national milestone.
According to the clerics, the transition marks the first time an indigenous Ghanaian company has taken control of a large-scale mining concession of this nature, a feat they say should inspire unity and national pride rather than partisan division.
The Council made these remarks during a special prayer session held at the Kumasi Central Mosque, where members offered prayers and recited verses from the Qur’an for divine guidance, protection, and success for Mr Mahama in his new role.
The event was attended by Alhaji Yakubu Tony-Aidoo, a close associate of Mr Mahama, who joined the gathering to express gratitude and seek continued blessings following what he described as a major milestone.
Damang Mine, an open-pit operation that has been active for nearly three decades, processes approximately 5.1 million tonnes of ore annually.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, Sheikh Ahmed Saeed, Secretary of the Ulama and Imams in the Ashanti Region, emphasised that the endorsement of Mr Mahama’s role is based on merit rather than politics.
“Ibrahim Mahama is not a politician, as far as we are aware. He is a businessman, and this is strictly a business undertaking,” Sheikh Saeed said.
“He has been active in the sector for many years. If he has been involved over time and the opportunity has now come to him, I do not think anyone would ask him to step aside. He is qualified and well-positioned to lead in that role.”
He added that the Council’s support is grounded in Mr Mahama’s experience and capability to manage the concession effectively, stressing that the matter should not be reduced to political debate.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
