The former NDC aspiring MP for Bortianor Ngleshie Amanfro Alex Akuorkoh, has defended the capabilities of Engineers & Planners (E&P) amid ongoing discussions surrounding the Damang Gold Concession, insisting the company is fully qualified to compete on the international stage.
Speaking on the matter with Kojo Preko Dankwa on Kessben Maakye, Akuorkoh emphasized that E&P should not be dismissed as a minor player, noting that the firm possesses the expertise and operational capacity required to win international bids.
He further argued that there is currently no indigenous Ghanaian company capable of matching E&P’s level of competitiveness, stressing the need to support local businesses to grow into globally competitive entities.
According to him, encouraging companies like E&P is essential for strengthening Ghana’s economy and building local industry champions.
Akuorkoh also addressed concerns about the company’s ties to Ibrahim Mahama, brother of President John Dramani Mahama. He acknowledged that public skepticism is understandable but cautioned against allowing such perceptions to overshadow the company’s proven competence.
“It is normal for some to assume E&P’s success is linked to Ibrahim Mahama, but its capacity and track record cannot be doubted,” he stated.
The Damang concession has recently sparked debate, with stakeholders divided over transparency, fairness, and the role of local firms in Ghana’s mining sector. Akuorkoh’s comments add to growing calls for greater recognition and support of indigenous companies in major national projects.
