Damang Gold Mine Expands Local Hiring as MIIF and GOLDBOD Report Record Revenue Gains

Ghana’s mining sector is experiencing a significant period of growth and localized empowerment, evidenced by major developments at the Damang Gold Mine and strong financial performances from state-led mining entities. Since its transition to Ghanaian ownership on April 18, 2026, Damang Gold Mine Limited (DGML) has prioritised local employment, with nearly 400 individuals from the surrounding catchment communities entering the recruitment pipeline. Currently, 180 of these locals are already employed in roles ranging from maintenance to security, while an additional 135 are undergoing pre-employment checks and 85 are awaiting interview results. This initiative aligns with a formal agreement to source 60% of the mine’s workforce locally, a move that has garnered high praise from traditional leaders and community members alike.

Local leadership, including Nana Kwabena Amponsah IV, Chief of the Bosomtwi Divisional Council, has expressed strong approval of DGML’s management post-takeover. In addition to job creation, the company has initiated critical infrastructure projects, such as preliminary work on a proposed airstrip and improvements to local road networks. Community representatives have noted that the involvement of Ghanaian professionals in key positions at the mine has significantly improved engagement and transparency. These developments are seen as a vital step in ensuring that the benefits of mining operations are directly felt by the people living closest to the resources.

Parallel to these community-level successes, Ghana's national mining institutions have reported record-breaking financial results for 2025. The Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD), under the leadership of CEO Sammy Gyamfi, generated ¢970 million in non-tax revenue for the state, primarily through assay fees on gold transactions involving the Bank of Ghana and licensed buyers. Simultaneously, the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) reported a profit of GH¢1.1 billion. MIIF CEO Justina Nelson highlighted that these gains were achieved despite legislative changes that reduced the fund’s royalty retention rate to 2%, underscoring a high level of operational efficiency and improved governance within the sector.

The combined success of local employment at Damang and the fiscal performance of GOLDBOD and MIIF has been recognized at the highest levels of traditional authority. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, recently commended MIIF’s leadership for their resilience and focus on wealth creation. He encouraged continued efforts to address environmental challenges while maximizing the industry's benefits for future generations. As DGML continues its recruitment drive and state agencies formalize the domestic gold trade, the industry’s trajectory indicates a shift towards a more self-sustaining and community-focused mining economy in Ghana.