Former President John Dramani Mahama has called for increased indigenous involvement in the exploration and management of Ghana’s natural resources, as tensions rise over the expired lease of Damang Mines.
Speaking at the maiden Executive Ministerial Retreat held in Ada, President Mahama stressed the importance of empowering Ghanaians to take charge of large-scale mining operations, particularly as the country continues to build local expertise, technology, and investment capacity.
“We now have the human resources, capital, and technology to manage our own natural resource concessions,” Mahama said. “It is time to prioritize local ownership and participation.”
His comments come as the government faces a growing impasse with Damang Mines following the expiration of its 30-year mining lease. Mahama believes the situation presents a clear opportunity to transfer such concessions to capable local entities.
He revealed plans by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to develop an indigenous participation policy with the aim of boosting local content in the mining sector and ensuring that Ghanaians benefit more directly from the country’s vast mineral wealth.
“Africa is ready. Ghana is ready. We must move from being mere hosts of multinational operations to full participants in the wealth they generate,” he emphasized.
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