Ibrahim Mahama helped break foreign dominance in mining – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has paid tribute to the entrepreneurial journey and impact of businessman Ibrahim Mahama, describing him as a pioneer who helped break barriers for indigenous Ghanaian participation in the mining sector.

Speaking at the 18th Special Congregation of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) on Saturday, January 31, where Ibrahim Mahama, Founder of Engineers and Planners, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate, the President recounted his brother’s early fascination with machinery and engineering.

According to President Mahama, Ibrahim Mahama showed a keen interest in mechanical systems from a young age, often dismantling toys to understand how they worked.

This curiosity later evolved into a strong passion for heavy-duty engineering and mining equipment, which he pursued further during his time in the United Kingdom.

The President explained that while abroad, Ibrahim Mahama partnered with an overseas contractor to establish what later became Engineers and Planners, beginning operations by renting equipment to mining companies in Ghana. At the time, he noted, Ghanaian firms were largely excluded from direct mining subcontracts, with major contracts dominated by foreign companies.

President Mahama said Ibrahim Mahama initially worked as a subcontractor for firms such as African Mining Services (AMS) but gradually distinguished himself through efficiency, reliability, and timely project delivery. This, he noted, opened the door for indigenous Ghanaian companies to secure direct contracts from large-scale mining firms.

He credited Ibrahim Mahama’s success to discipline and hard work, rejecting claims that political influence played a role in the company’s growth. The President stated that, if anything, his brother faced greater scrutiny during periods when he was in office.

President Mahama further disclosed that Engineers and Planners has grown into one of the largest mining subcontractors in West Africa and is now preparing to develop Ghana’s first 100 percent indigenously owned gold mine.

He expressed appreciation to UMaT for honouring Ibrahim Mahama, describing the recognition as timely and strategic, and highlighted the businessman’s philanthropic contributions to education and national development.

President Mahama also used the occasion to encourage students and graduates of UMaT to view their education as both a privilege and a responsibility, urging them to apply innovation, discipline and service in contributing to Ghana’s development.