Wassa Fiase (W/R), April 22, – The Paramount Chief of the Wassa Fiase Traditional Area, Odeneho Akrofa Krukoko III, has urged Engineers and Planners (E&P), the new operators of the Damang Gold Mine, to fully implement agreed community development commitments following the mine’s transfer.
He said the expectations of host communities had been clearly outlined during the transition process and must be strictly respected to avoid tensions.
“I welcomed them with clear terms, and now that the papers are signed, I expect them to respect the development blueprint we discussed. Those plans are not suggestions but commitments to my people,” the Chief stated.
Odeneho Krukoko III said the most urgent priority for the area was youth empowerment, calling on the mining firm to prioritise skills training, apprenticeships, and local recruitment.
He noted that mining operations had long impacted surrounding communities and stressed that residents must now see measurable returns in the form of jobs, infrastructure, and enterprise support.
“The true legacy of mining is not just revenue, but how many of our young people gain sustainable livelihoods,” he added.
The Chief further cautioned that traditional authorities remained key stakeholders in maintaining peace and stability in mining areas, warning that failure to honour agreements could undermine trust between the company and host communities.
E&P officially assumed control of the Damang Mine after regulatory approval, with assurances of local employment retention and expanded operations.
The transition has sparked heightened community expectations, with stakeholders closely monitoring whether the new operators will uphold existing social development frameworks tied to the mine’s operations.
GHBUSS
April 22, 2026
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