The selection of a contractor for the Damang Mines has sparked a conversation about the balance between opportunity and risk in Ghana’s mining sector. Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, the CEO of the National Petroleum Authority, recently clarified why Engineers and Planners was chosen for the role. It’s a decision that centers on the belief that high-stakes industrial operations leave no room for error.
Mining is a capital-intensive industry where a single mistake can lead to massive financial losses or safety hazards. When awarding contracts for sites like Damang, the priority is often stability and a proven track record rather than untested potential. The goal is to ensure that production remains steady and the local economy isn’t disrupted by operational failures.
Tamakloe was firm about the necessity of expertise, stating, “Mining is not a place for experiments. It is not where you go and say you are learning on the job.” He pointed to the nearly three decades of experience held by Engineers and Planners and noted that two of the country’s top banks are syndicating the financial closure. Because the firm is already familiar with the site’s specific conditions, Tamakloe argued that “it would have been negligence to ignore experience for learning on the job.”
This decision signals a cautious approach to resource management, prioritizing reliability over experimentation. By leaning on an incumbent contractor with deep site knowledge, the project aims to minimize the transition period and maximize efficiency. It sets a clear precedent for how future large-scale mining contracts might be awarded in the region.
The involvement of major financial institutions adds another layer of security to the operation. When top-tier banks are willing to back a transaction, it suggests a level of confidence in the contractor’s ability to deliver. This combination of financial muscle and technical skill is what Tamakloe believes makes the choice the only logical one.
