Ghana Energy & Infrastructure News

Follow Ghana's energy and infrastructure story: electricity supply and the power grid, ECG and dumsor, fuel prices, oil and gas, and the road, rail, and port projects reshaping the country. Curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

NACOC begins pre-screening checks at Accra International Airport
energy and infrastructure|

NACOC and Ghana Airports Company Launch Mandatory Pre-screening at Accra International Airport

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has officially commenced the implementation of mandatory pre-screening checks conducted by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) at the Accra International Airport. Effective from October 2, these new measures are situated within the airport’s Departure Hall and are designed to bolster national security and curb the trafficking of illicit substances. Under the new protocols, every passenger departing from the facility must have their luggage thoroughly screened using advanced scanning technology and specialized sniffer dogs before they are permitted to proceed to the check-in counters. To ensure a seamless transition and minimize potential delays caused by the additional security layers, GACL has issued a strong advisory for all travelers to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to their scheduled flight times. This window is intended to provide sufficient time for passengers to complete both the new NACOC pre-screening and the standard check-in and security procedures. Furthermore, in a significant shift in operational policy, access to the Departure Hall is now strictly restricted to traveling passengers only. Family members, friends, and other non-travelers who previously accompanied passengers into the hall will no longer be granted entry, a move aimed at reducing congestion and enhancing the efficiency of the security teams. GACL management expressed their appreciation for the patience and cooperation of the traveling public as these essential safety measures are integrated into daily operations. The collaboration between the airport authorities and the Narcotics Control Commission represents a coordinated effort to maintain the integrity of Ghana’s primary international gateway. By tightening surveillance and screening at the point of departure, officials aim to deter criminal activity while ensuring that the airport remains compliant with international aviation security standards. Travelers are encouraged to comply with all directives from security personnel to facilitate a safe and orderly environment for all airport users.

GhIE President Ing. Ludwig Hesse Advocates for Metropolitan Governance Reform to Fix Ghana’s Transport Challenges
energy and infrastructure|

GhIE President Ing. Ludwig Hesse Advocates for Metropolitan Governance Reform to Fix Ghana’s Transport Challenges

Ing. Ludwig Annang Hesse, President of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE), has called for a radical overhaul of urban governance to address the country's persistent and complex transport challenges. Speaking at the Third International Conference on Energy and Engineering (ICEE), Hesse argued that the current fragmented administrative structure is a primary obstacle to developing a modern, efficient public transportation system. He emphasized that without first addressing the underlying governance framework, technical solutions and infrastructure investments will continue to fall short of their potential impact. Central to Hesse’s critique is the division of authority across multiple municipal and district assemblies within the same urban corridors. This fragmentation complicates comprehensive public transport planning, as individual local authorities often lack the mandate or resources to coordinate large-scale networks that cross administrative borders. To rectify this, the GhIE President urged for a shift toward a metropolitan-level approach to urban planning. Such a model would involve establishing a clear, centralized authority with the power to implement transport strategies that serve entire urban regions cohesively, rather than as a collection of isolated districts. The conference, organized by the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), served as a vital platform for experts to discuss the integration of energy solutions, industrial requirements, and academic research to drive sustainable development. Hesse noted that while robust long-term planning is essential for the future of Ghana's infrastructure, the government and industry stakeholders must take immediate, decisive action to mitigate current transport bottlenecks. He concluded that aligning governance policy with academic findings and industry capacity is the only sustainable way to ensure Ghana’s infrastructure can support its growing population and evolving economic needs.

Residents of Kenya’s Lamu Island Raise Alarms Over Potential Environmental and Cultural Impact of Mega-Refinery Project
energy and infrastructure|

Residents of Kenya’s Lamu Island Raise Alarms Over Potential Environmental and Cultural Impact of Mega-Refinery Project

Residents of Kenya's Lamu Island are expressing deep-seated concerns over the construction of a new mega-refinery, a project that threatens to transform the region from a tranquil tourist destination into a massive industrial hub. Lamu, renowned for its 12th-century Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and its pristine beaches, is now at the center of a national debate regarding the trade-off between heritage preservation and industrialization. The refinery represents one of Africa's most ambitious energy infrastructure projects, but its proximity to culturally and environmentally sensitive areas has sparked significant local pushback. For decades, Lamu's economy has been anchored in tourism and traditional fishing, drawing visitors from across the globe to its unique blend of Swahili culture and natural beauty. However, the introduction of industrial-scale oil infrastructure threatens to disrupt these established sectors. Environmentalists and local leaders warn that the refinery could lead to habitat destruction, pollution of coastal waters, and the degradation of the island’s architectural heritage. While the government views the mega-refinery as a vital catalyst for economic growth and energy security, many residents fear it presents a terminal risk to the identity that makes the island a global landmark. Beyond environmental concerns, the project raises urgent questions about the socio-cultural fabric of the island. Local communities fear that the influx of industrial labor and the physical sprawl of the refinery will marginalize traditional residents and erode the customs that have persisted for centuries. This tension highlights a broader continental trend where large-scale infrastructure projects often collide with local conservation efforts. As the project moves forward, the balance between Kenya's industrial ambitions and the protection of Lamu’s cultural legacy remains precariously thin. As the development progresses, the international community and local advocacy groups are calling for more transparent environmental impact assessments and inclusive community consultations. The situation in Lamu serves as a critical case study for how African nations navigate the complex intersection of industrial necessity and cultural preservation. Whether the government can implement sufficient safeguards to protect the historical integrity of the island while fostering industrial growth will determine the long-term viability of Lamu as both a cultural treasure and an energy gateway.

Canadian PM Mark Carney Fast-Tracks Pacific Link Pipeline to Diversify Oil Markets Amid Trade Tensions
energy and infrastructure|

Canadian PM Mark Carney Fast-Tracks Pacific Link Pipeline to Diversify Oil Markets Amid Trade Tensions

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced the fast-tracking of the Pacific Link oil pipeline, a 1,250km project designed to reduce Canada’s economic dependence on the United States. Spanning from Bruderheim, Alberta, to a deep-water port near Delta, British Columbia, the pipeline is a strategic response to ongoing trade tensions with the US. The project aims to shift Canadian crude oil exports toward Asia-Pacific markets, ensuring greater economic sovereignty and market diversification for the nation's energy sector. The ambitious infrastructure project is expected to deliver significant economic benefits, potentially contributing C$30 billion ($21 billion) to Canada’s GDP and creating approximately 140,000 jobs. Designed to transport one million barrels of crude oil daily, the Pacific Link is the first project to benefit from a new regulatory fast-track law, which promises a final decision within a single year. This streamlined approach reflects the government's urgency in bolstering the national economy through large-scale energy infrastructure development. To address environmental concerns often associated with major oil projects, the government of Alberta has committed to implementing a major carbon capture program alongside the pipeline's development. Despite these mitigation measures, the project is expected to face significant opposition from environmental advocates and indigenous groups who have historically challenged pipeline expansions. The balance between rapid economic growth and environmental stewardship remains a central point of debate as the expedited regulatory review proceeds. If the approval process is successful, construction for the Pacific Link is slated to begin by 2032. The initiative represents a pivotal shift in Canada’s energy strategy, moving away from a US-centric export model toward a more globalized framework. As global trade dynamics continue to shift, the completion of this pipeline could redefine Canada’s role in the international energy market and provide a critical buffer against bilateral trade volatility.

A representative from Gold Fields Ghana Limited shakes hands with an official during a ceremony for the donation of electricity transformers. The event features a large transformer wrapped in plastic in the foreground and a backdrop banner highlighting the donation for the T&A Stadium.
energy and infrastructure|

Gold Fields Ghana Limited Boosts Western Region Power Infrastructure with 90 New Transformers

Gold Fields Ghana Limited has officially handed over 90 electricity transformers to several host communities in the Western Region, a move aimed at significantly improving the local power supply. The initiative, valued at approximately GH¢1,098,583.2, is designed to address the growing electricity demands of both residential households and small businesses in the area. By enhancing the stability of the local grid, the donation seeks to provide a reliable foundation for economic activity and social development in regions that have historically faced energy challenges. The beneficiary communities include Samahu, Abekoase, Benso, and Awudua, with the Tarkwa Boso Stadium also receiving a dedicated unit to support its operations. These transformers are expected to mitigate frequent power fluctuations and ensure that the infrastructure can accommodate the increasing load from the region’s expanding population. The donation was facilitated through the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation, which serves as the primary vehicle for the company’s corporate social investment and community engagement strategies. This latest contribution is part of a much larger legacy of support from the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation. To date, the Foundation has invested more than US$113 million across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and agriculture, within its host communities. Local government officials and traditional leaders have expressed their profound gratitude for the gesture, noting that such partnerships are vital for bridging the infrastructure gap in mining-affected areas. They emphasized that reliable electricity is a prerequisite for the industrialization and modernization of the Western Region. However, the handover also came with a call for community responsibility and vigilance. Local authorities and company representatives have urged residents to take ownership of the new equipment and protect the transformers from theft and vandalism, which have plagued similar projects in the past. Ensuring the security of these assets is seen as crucial for the long-term sustainability of the power improvements. As Gold Fields continues its operations, this investment underscores the company’s commitment to shared value, ensuring that the benefits of mining extend directly to the residents living near its sites.

The MT Asharami Ghana vessel
energy and infrastructure|

MT Asharami Ghana Vessel Arrives to Bolster National LPG Supply and Clean Cooking Initiatives

Ghana’s energy infrastructure has received a significant boost with the arrival of the MT Asharami Ghana, a state-of-the-art 40,000-cubic-metre Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) carrier. The vessel successfully completed its maiden voyage, delivering an initial 5,000 tonnes of LPG to the country. This arrival marks a strategic milestone in Sahara Group’s ongoing investment in Ghana’s energy sector, aimed at enhancing the reliability of fuel supplies for both domestic and commercial consumers. The deployment of the carrier is expected to play a critical role in stabilizing the local LPG market and ensuring consistent availability across the nation. The official welcoming ceremony for the vessel was attended by key government figures, including Energy Minister Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor and senior officials from the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). During the event, the Minister emphasized the importance of private-sector partnerships in achieving national energy goals. The MT Asharami Ghana is not merely a logistical asset but a symbol of the collaboration required to modernize Ghana's energy value chain. By increasing the volume of LPG that can be efficiently transported and discharged, the government and its partners hope to reduce supply bottlenecks that have historically affected the market. This initiative is central to the government’s broader energy transition strategy, which aims to increase LPG access to 50% of the population by 2030. By promoting LPG as a primary energy source, the administration seeks to move households away from traditional fuels such as charcoal and wood, which contribute to deforestation and respiratory health issues. Officials at the NPA noted that the increased storage and transport capacity provided by Sahara Group’s investment will be instrumental in making clean cooking solutions more affordable and accessible to the average Ghanaian. Looking ahead, the arrival of the MT Asharami Ghana sets the stage for further infrastructure developments designed to secure Ghana's energy future. As the country strives toward its 2030 targets, the focus remains on building a resilient energy sector that supports economic growth and environmental sustainability. The government has reiterated its commitment to fostering a favorable investment climate for energy companies, ensuring that the infrastructure needed to support a modern, gas-driven economy continues to expand in the coming years.

Construction crew working on a road
energy and infrastructure|

Roads Minister Governs Agbodza Proposes Extended Contractor Liability to Ensure Infrastructure Durability

The Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has proposed a significant policy shift aimed at enhancing the quality and longevity of Ghana's road network. Speaking during an inspection of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway, the Minister advocated for extending the defect liability period (DLP) currently stipulated in road construction contracts beyond the standard one-year term. Mr. Agbodza argued that a single year of liability is insufficient for infrastructure designed to last three decades, emphasizing that contractors must be held more accountable for the long-term integrity of their work to better protect public investments and encourage higher construction standards. To facilitate this change, the Minister is currently engaging in high-level discussions with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Works and Housing. The proposed extension seeks to align the period of contractor responsibility more closely with the expected lifespan of the roads being constructed. By enforcing these stricter standards, the government aims to minimize the cycle of frequent, costly repairs and reallocate national resources toward expanding the nation’s infrastructure footprint rather than merely maintaining existing routes. Mr. Agbodza expressed strong confidence in the technical capabilities of Ghanaian engineers, noting that the emphasis must remain on durability and value for money. Parallel to these policy discussions, the Ministry is actively integrating practical training into major infrastructure projects under the "Big Push Infrastructure Programme." On the 47km Kumasi Outer Ring Road project, 15 tertiary students from the Ashanti Region have been engaged by the project contractor to gain hands-on experience. These students, specializing in civil engineering, geomatics engineering, and quantity surveying, are participating in various stages of the project, including vegetation clearance, earthworks, and the construction of drains. This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and field practice, ensuring a new generation of professionals is equipped to handle large-scale engineering challenges. Minister Agbodza highlighted that the scale of current projects provides unique learning opportunities despite the inherent difficulties of such massive undertakings. He urged all stakeholders to maintain the current momentum to ensure timely completion of the Kumasi project, which is already seeing significant progress. The dual focus on stricter contractual accountability and robust professional development reflects a broader strategy by the Mahama administration to build resilient infrastructure that serves as a foundation for economic growth. As these policy shifts take hold, the government expects to see a marked improvement in the quality of roads delivered across the country.

Richard Gyan-Mensah (right), Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition, speaking at the event
energy and infrastructure|

Ministry of Energy Launches Electrification Project for 90 Communities in Oti Region

The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has officially launched the Turnkey Electrification Project in the Oti Region, marking a significant milestone in the Rural Electricity Acceleration and Urban Intensification Initiative (REIP). This ambitious project is designed to provide 90 communities across nine districts with either first-time access to the national grid or substantial upgrades to their existing electrical networks. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to bridging the energy gap and ensuring that rural and urban-fringe areas are integrated into the national development agenda. Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan-Mensah, detailed that this regional project is a key component of a broader four-year strategy aimed at enhancing power infrastructure across all 16 regions of Ghana. To reach the most geographically isolated areas where traditional grid extension may be technically challenging or cost-prohibitive, the government plans to deploy specialized mini-grid systems. These decentralized energy solutions are expected to provide reliable, sustainable power to remote island and lakeside communities, ensuring that the benefits of modern energy are accessible regardless of location. In addition to residential and commercial power connections, the project scope includes the strategic installation of solar streetlights to improve public safety and enhance night-time visibility within the beneficiary communities. However, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the long-term success of this infrastructure depends heavily on local stewardship. He urged traditional leaders and local government authorities to take an active role in protecting these vital assets, specifically cautioning against the dangers of illegal connections. Such activities, he noted, not only pose significant safety risks but also undermine the financial and operational stability of the national energy network. Beyond providing basic illumination, the electrification drive is envisioned as a primary catalyst for socio-economic transformation within the Oti Region. By bringing stable electricity to these 90 communities, the Ministry aims to stimulate small-scale industries, improve educational and healthcare service delivery, and create new economic opportunities for residents. This project aligns with the broader infrastructure goals of President John Mahama’s administration, which views universal energy access as a cornerstone for sustainable national growth and poverty reduction.

VRA Reports GH¢8.9 Billion Revenue Amidst Liquidity Warnings and Proposed Strategy Shift for Regional Power Exports
energy and infrastructure|

VRA Reports GH¢8.9 Billion Revenue Amidst Liquidity Warnings and Proposed Strategy Shift for Regional Power Exports

The Volta River Authority (VRA) has navigated a complex fiscal year in 2025, reporting a total electricity revenue of GH¢8.9 billion despite mounting financial pressures. While the Authority remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s energy sector, contributing 48% of the country’s total electricity generation, leadership has warned that inter-utility debt and payment delays are significantly threatening its liquidity. This financial update comes as the Authority also re-evaluates its regional export strategies to balance domestic needs with international commercial obligations. During a recent performance review, VRA CEO Ing. Edward Obeng Kenzo detailed that while revenue declined by 4.0% compared to 2024 and the cost of sales rose by an equal percentage, the VRA managed to achieve a net profit of GH¢88 million. A notable highlight was the Authority’s improved foreign exchange position, which swung from a substantial loss of GH¢695 million in 2024 to a gain of GH¢237 million in 2025. However, Kenzo emphasized that the persistent issue of inter-utility debt continues to hamper the execution of vital capacity projects, necessitating urgent resolutions to ensure long-term operational sustainability. Complementing the financial report, VRA Board Chairman Jabesh Amissah-Arthur has proposed a strategic shift in how the Authority handles power shortages. Rather than implementing total cuts to neighboring countries during domestic supply gaps, Amissah-Arthur advocated for proportional reductions. He suggested that a uniform 30% cut across both Ghana and its neighboring markets would be more beneficial than isolating regional partners. This approach aims to protect the long-term commercial value of Ghana’s export market, ensuring that the VRA remains a reliable supplier in the West African sub-region while managing local shortages. As the VRA continues to pursue additional capacity projects, its ability to manage the delicate balance between domestic demand and regional trade will be critical. The Authority’s shift toward a more integrated regional strategy, coupled with its efforts to stabilize its balance sheet against rising operational costs, underscores its central role in Ghana's economic infrastructure. Moving forward, the resolution of inter-utility debt will be paramount to ensuring that the VRA can maintain its profit margins and continue providing the reliable power necessary for both national growth and regional cooperation.

Government Intensifies Flood Mitigation Works at Mallam Junction to Provide Long-Term Drainage Relief
energy and infrastructure|

Government Intensifies Flood Mitigation Works at Mallam Junction to Provide Long-Term Drainage Relief

The government has launched a series of intensified interventions at Mallam Junction to address the perennial flooding that has long plagued residents, motorists, and businesses in the area. Moving away from the traditional model of reactive emergency responses following heavy downpours, this renewed strategy focuses on proactive, sustained engineering and environmental management. Central to the initiative is the deployment of dedicated operational teams tasked with restoring vital waterways and improving the overall capacity of the local drainage network to handle significant stormwater runoff. A key component of this operation is the extensive dredging of the Lafa water retention basin and the systematic removal of accumulated waste that has historically obstructed flow. Furthermore, authorities have begun identifying and removing illegal structures and encroachments that interfere with drainage paths. These efforts are being coordinated through a multi-agency approach involving national government bodies, private-sector stakeholders, and the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly. The assembly’s role is particularly critical in monitoring ongoing activities and enforcing sanitation bylaws to prevent the recurrence of illegal dumping, which has significantly contributed to the landfill-related challenges in the district. Local businesses and residents have expressed a cautious sense of optimism regarding these developments, welcoming the shift toward a more permanent solution. For years, the Mallam Junction area has faced severe disruptions to commerce and daily life whenever it rains, leading to calls for more than just temporary fixes. Community leaders emphasize that the success of this intervention will depend on the continued collaboration between all stakeholders and the consistent maintenance of the reclaimed infrastructure. As the project progresses, the focus remains on ensuring that these drainage improvements are robust enough to withstand future rainy seasons and provide lasting environmental relief to the community.

COMAC Demands Full Fuel Price Deregulation and 14-Day Suspension of New Petroleum Tax Provisions
energy and infrastructure|

COMAC Demands Full Fuel Price Deregulation and 14-Day Suspension of New Petroleum Tax Provisions

The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has intensified its advocacy for a complete overhaul of Ghana's downstream petroleum sector, calling on President John Mahama’s administration to end government interference in fuel pricing. CEO Dr. Riverson Oppong has issued a sharp critique of current policies, arguing that the market remains only partially deregulated while state-imposed subsidies and price caps hinder private business operations. Central to these demands is a 14-day ultimatum issued to the Ministry of Finance to suspend Section 136 of the Customs Act, 2026. COMAC warns that the new tax framework, which shifts tax responsibilities from Oil and LPG Marketing Companies to Bulk Import, Distribution, and Export Companies, lacks proper consultation and could jeopardize the national fuel supply by increasing costs and operational risks. Dr. Oppong emphasized that the industry is currently facing immense pressure from rising international oil prices and a "saturated" domestic market. With 245 Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) already competing for market share, COMAC has questioned the rationale behind licensing new entrants while existing players struggle under government-mandated price structures. Specifically, the Chamber pointed to the GH"2-per-litre diesel subsidy as a complicating factor that obscures true market costs. Dr. Oppong argued that for a free market to function effectively, private operators must be empowered to set prices independently of state controls, noting that excessive intervention remains one of the industry's most significant hurdles. To alleviate the burden on consumers and businesses, COMAC is advocating for a strategic redistribution of Ghana’s petroleum wealth. The Chamber proposes that the government freeze petroleum taxes and levies, redirecting unexpected "windfall" revenues from the upstream crude oil production sector to support the struggling downstream market. Dr. Oppong also sought to clarify the distinction between the Uniform Pricing Policy Fund (UPPF) and government subsidies. He explained that while the UPPF is vital for ensuring fuel price parity across all regions of Ghana—preventing higher costs in remote areas—it does not directly deplete government revenue in the same way that tax-based subsidies do. Looking ahead, COMAC has signaled its readiness to hold an emergency meeting to determine further actions if the Ministry of Finance fails to address the concerns regarding the Customs Act within the two-week window. The Chamber is calling for a collaborative dialogue between state stakeholders and industry players to create a more transparent, balanced, and sustainable pricing regime. By aligning the profits of the upstream sector with the operational needs of the downstream sector, COMAC believes the government can provide more effective relief to consumers without compromising the financial health of private oil marketing firms.

energy and infrastructure|

Government Intervenes to Stabilize Fuel Prices as NPA Caps Diesel Below GH¢20 per Litre

Fuel prices at Ghanaian pumps are expected to remain stable for at least the next two weeks following a strategic government intervention aimed at shielding consumers from rising international costs. The directive requires both the state-owned Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) and the Sentuo Oil Refinery to maintain their current selling prices to Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). This move is intended to provide immediate relief to motorists and businesses, ensuring that the cost of transportation and basic goods does not surge further during the current pricing window. According to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), these measures are specifically designed to keep diesel prices below the GH¢20 per litre threshold throughout the first pricing window of October. NPA Chief Executive Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe revealed that without this intervention, consumers could have seen diesel prices soar to as high as GH¢22 per litre. To prevent this, the government has suspended the GH¢1 Energy Sector Levy on diesel for the month and is maintaining an existing GH¢2 subsidy on the product. These decisions were finalized during an emergency meeting convened to address the domestic fallout from rising global energy costs. Dr. Riverson Oppong, Chief Executive of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), highlighted the critical role of the Supplier Reference Exchange Rate (SREF) in these pricing dynamics. He noted that while Ghana’s pricing model remains fundamentally cost-reflective—factoring in taxes, levies, and exchange rates—the current government directive effectively delays immediate hikes that would otherwise be passed directly to the consumer. Dr. Oppong emphasized that as long as the SREF remains constant and refineries adhere to the price freeze, the immediate pressure on the public will be significantly alleviated. This intervention follows a challenging period for Ghanaian motorists, who have faced nine fuel price hikes within a seven-month span in 2026. While the current measures offer a temporary reprieve, industry experts and the government will conduct further reviews to evaluate the long-term sustainability of these subsidies and price controls. For now, the stability provides a necessary buffer for public transport operators and the broader business community, though the outlook remains closely tied to the stability of the cedi and international market trends.