Youth in Damang in the Western Region have expressed strong support for the transition of the Damang Mine to Engineers and Planners (E&P), describing the move as a boost for indigenous participation in Ghana’s mining sector.

During engagements with Twenty-Four Hour Newspaper over the weekend, residents welcomed the takeover by the Ghanaian-owned firm led by businessman Ibrahim Mahama, noting that local ownership enhances confidence and aligns with national interests.

According to the youth, the development represents more than a business transaction, but a step toward empowering Ghanaian entrepreneurs to manage the country’s natural resources.

“We are happy with Engineers & Planners and grateful for this direction.

Keeping the mine under Ghanaian control is better than foreign ownership,” a youth leader said.

Residents expressed optimism that the new management understands the local context and will be better positioned to respond to community needs, adding that the transition could usher in a new phase of stability and development in Damang.

Despite their support, the youth raised concerns about inadequate healthcare infrastructure in the area.

They noted that existing Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds lack the capacity to handle serious medical emergencies, forcing patients to travel long distances, particularly to Tarkwa, for treatment.

They warned that delays in accessing healthcare have, in some cases, resulted in preventable deaths.

The youth are therefore appealing to Mr Mahama and the management of Engineers & Planners to prioritise the construction of a modern hospital in Damang to address the growing healthcare needs of the community.

As the transition progresses, residents say they remain hopeful that the new operators will not only sustain mining activities but also invest in social development initiatives to improve livelihoods in the area.