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.

energy and infrastructure|

Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam Urges Mahama Administration to Scrap Fuel Taxes Amid Inadequate Diesel Relief

Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the former Finance Minister and current Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, has called for a comprehensive review and the potential scrapping of several taxes and levies on petroleum products. Speaking on the heels of recent fuel price adjustments, Dr. Adam argued that the current administration’s intervention—a GH"2 reduction in diesel prices—has failed to provide significant relief to Ghanaian consumers. He emphasized that the financial burden on the public remains severe, necessitating more drastic fiscal measures to lower the cost of living under the government of President John Mahama. According to Dr. Adam, the temporary GH"2 cut is an inadequate response to the volatility of the energy market. He pointed out that despite this intervention, diesel prices at the pumps continue to range between GH"17.55 and GH"18.99 per litre. In a critique shared on social media, the Ranking Member contended that the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration implemented more permanent and effective relief structures to protect consumers during periods of high global oil prices. He suggested that the current approach is merely a temporary measure that does not address the underlying tax structure that keeps prices high. The call for tax reform in the energy sector comes at a time of heightened economic scrutiny. By urging the government to look beyond temporary cuts and instead focus on the "comprehensive removal" of specific levies, Dr. Adam is positioning the opposition to lead the debate on economic relief. This demand is expected to shift the focus toward the Finance Ministry, as stakeholders and the public await a formal response on whether the government will reconsider the existing petroleum tax regime to alleviate the pressure on transport fares and the price of general goods across the country.

energy and infrastructure|

Takoradi Market Traders Reject Government's Pre-Rent Proposal for Stalled Redevelopment Project

Traders at the Takoradi New Market have voiced strong opposition to a new government proposal aimed at jumpstarting the stalled Takoradi Market Circle Redevelopment Project. Minister Mahama Ayariga recently unveiled a plan to utilize a rent-based financing model to secure the necessary funds for the project’s completion. Under this arrangement, prospective occupants would be required to pay for market spaces in advance, a move intended to provide the capital required to resume construction on the long-delayed site. The government’s strategy is seen as an attempt to bypass traditional funding delays that have left the project in its current state of limbo. The proposed strategy involves a partnership with commercial banks, which would manage the rental payments to ensure transparency and project liquidity. During a site visit to assess the state of the infrastructure, Minister Ayariga explained that this approach was designed to overcome the current financial hurdles preventing the completion of the iconic market. However, the proposal has met immediate resistance from the vendors, who argue that the burden of financing public infrastructure should not fall directly on the shoulders of the informal sector, especially while the project remains unfinished. Led by their convenor, Madam Lamisi Adam, the traders have characterized the pre-rent proposal as unfeasible due to their current financial hardships. Speaking on behalf of the group, Madam Adam highlighted that many traders are already struggling with low sales at their temporary relocation sites and remain dissatisfied with previous payments made during the transition phase. The traders insist that they will only commit to rental payments once the project is fully completed, certified, and officially opened for occupancy. They have urged the government to explore more effective and equitable financing solutions to ensure the project stays on track without further taxing the trader community. The impasse highlights the growing tension between the government’s infrastructure goals and the economic realities facing local businesses. As the Takoradi Market Circle remains a shell of its intended design, the standoff underscores the urgent need for a collaborative funding framework that does not alienate the market's primary stakeholders. For the project to reach its conclusion, the administration may need to reconsider its approach to ensure that this critical economic hub in the Western Region is delivered without further delay.

A group of men, including a project official in a high-visibility safety vest and hard hat, inspect the construction progress of a building in Kpone-Katamanso. They are standing within the concrete shell of the unfinished structure, which is part of the new 24-hour market project.
energy and infrastructure|

MP Joseph Akuerteh Tettey and Chief Executive Inspect Progress of Kpone-Katamanso 24-Hour Market

The Member of Parliament for Kpone-Katamanso, Joseph Akuerteh Tettey, and the Municipal Chief Executive, Samuel Tetteh Quarshie Morton, have conducted a joint inspection of the ongoing 24-hour market construction project at Gbetsile. This infrastructure initiative is designed to bolster local commerce and provide a continuous trading hub for the municipality. Currently at the foundation stage, the project is structured into three main blocks, marking a significant step toward addressing the trading needs of the rapidly growing community. During the visit, officials highlighted the strategic layout and comprehensive facilities planned for the market site. Beyond standard trading stalls, the completed project is expected to house several essential services, including a mini-clinic, a police station, a food court, and specialized warehouses. These additions are intended to create a secure and self-sustaining environment for traders and patrons alike. Mr. Tettey emphasized that early-stage inspections are critical for identifying potential structural challenges and ensuring that the contractor adheres strictly to engineering and safety standards. A primary concern identified during the inspection was the poor state of the access roads leading to the market site. Recognizing that infrastructure accessibility is vital for the market's success, the MP and Chief Executive confirmed that discussions are already underway with the Ministry of Roads and Highways to address these bottlenecks. Improving these transport links is seen as a prerequisite for ensuring that the market effectively serves the diverse range of surrounding communities that are expected to depend on the facility for their daily commercial activities. Once completed, the Kpone-Katamanso 24-hour market is poised to become a central economic engine for the region, facilitating trade at all hours and reducing the pressure on existing, overcrowded market spaces. The project reflects a broader commitment to local government infrastructure development aimed at enhancing the socio-economic well-being of residents. By integrating health and security services directly into the market complex, the assembly aims to provide a modern, efficient trading experience that supports both small-scale vendors and larger commercial interests in the Gbetsile enclave.

Special traffic arrangement for faster movement of Aayalolo buses in Accra beginning Tuesday Sept 29
energy and infrastructure|

Aayalolo BRT to Launch Contra-Flow Traffic System on Major Accra Corridors to Ease Peak-Hour Congestion

The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, is set to implement a special contra-flow traffic arrangement for Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services starting Tuesday, September 29, 2026. This initiative is designed to expedite the movement of mass transit buses during peak commuting hours, specifically from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. By dedicating specific lanes for the exclusive use of Aayalolo buses, the government aims to alleviate the chronic traffic congestion that plagues the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area and improve the punctuality and reliability of public transportation. The new arrangement will initially target four major corridors into Accra’s Central Business District: Amasaman, Adenta, Kasoa, and Pokuase. Under the plan, authorized Aayalolo buses will be permitted to travel in designated lanes against the normal flow of traffic, bypassing the gridlock faced by private and other commercial vehicles. This system is a collaborative effort between the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE), the Department of Urban Roads (DUR), and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service. Officials have confirmed that unauthorized vehicles will be strictly prohibited from using these contra-flow lanes, with police personnel stationed at key intersections to ensure compliance and manage the transition. Addressing concerns regarding the impact of the expansion on existing transport providers, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, clarified that the initiative is not intended to collapse the 'trotro' business. Instead, the Minister emphasized that the primary goal is to encourage private car owners to shift toward public transport by providing a more efficient and dependable alternative. According to GAPTE’s Acting Managing Director, Awudu Dawuda, previous trials of the contra-flow system showed significant reductions in travel time, suggesting that the permanent implementation will greatly enhance urban mobility and reduce the city's overall carbon footprint. As the September 29 launch date approaches, the government is urging all motorists and road users to cooperate with traffic officers and adhere to the new regulations. A public briefing was held on September 28 to finalize details and sensitize commuters to the changes. This initiative represents a broader strategic shift toward prioritizing mass transit solutions to address the infrastructure challenges of a rapidly growing capital. Success of the program will depend heavily on the strict enforcement of lane restrictions and the public's willingness to embrace the modernized transit system to improve daily commutes.

transportation
energy and infrastructure|

Ministry of Local Government to Launch Aayalolo Contra-Flow System on Major Accra Corridors

Starting Tuesday, September 29, 2026, the Government of Ghana will implement a new contra-flow traffic arrangement for Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services across several critical corridors in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area. This strategic initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, aims to drastically reduce travel times and alleviate the chronic congestion that plagues routes leading into Accra's Central Business District (CBD). The system will initially target three primary corridors—Amasaman–Accra, Adenta–Accra, and Kasoa–Accra—with some officials also identifying the Pokuase route for inclusion in the rollout. Under the new regulations, designated lanes will be reserved exclusively for authorized Aayalolo buses, allowing them to travel against the standard flow of traffic during peak commuting hours. These operational windows are set from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The project is a collaborative effort involving the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE), the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, and the Department of Urban Roads. Authorities have clarified that private vehicles and other commercial transport operators are strictly prohibited from using these contra-flow lanes, with police officers stationed at key intersections to enforce compliance and ensure road safety. Addressing potential concerns within the transport sector, Mahama Ayariga, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, emphasized that the expansion of Aayalolo services is not intended to displace "trotro" operators. Instead, the policy is designed to provide a more reliable public transit alternative that encourages private car owners to opt for mass transport. By improving the punctuality and efficiency of the BRT system, the government hopes to shift the modal split of urban transport toward higher-capacity vehicles. Awudu Dawuda, the Acting Managing Director of GAPTE, noted that previous trials of the contra-flow system demonstrated a significant reduction in journey times, proving the potential for the system to transform urban mobility. This traffic management intervention marks a significant step in the government’s broader strategy to modernize Accra’s infrastructure and enhance the daily lives of thousands of commuters. The success of the program relies heavily on the cooperation of the motoring public and strict enforcement by the MTTD to prevent unauthorized lane incursions. As the September 29 rollout approaches, officials are urging all road users to exercise patience and follow the directions of traffic officers to ensure a smooth transition toward a more efficient and dependable public transportation network in the capital.

Ga West Municipality Breaks Ground on Long-Awaited Odumase Market Construction
energy and infrastructure|

Ga West Municipality Breaks Ground on Long-Awaited Odumase Market Construction

On September 25, 2026, the Ga West Municipality marked a significant milestone in local infrastructure development with the official commencement of the Odumase Market project. The long-awaited construction phase began with a formal sod-cutting ceremony, signaling a strategic move to modernize commerce and enhance the local economy. This initiative is expected to provide a structured and reliable environment for traders who have historically struggled with inadequate facilities and unreliable market infrastructure. The new project is specifically designed to address a series of chronic issues that have plagued the trading landscape in Odumase for years. Key among these challenges are severe congestion, deteriorating sanitation conditions, and a critical shortage of designated trading spaces. By establishing a dedicated and modernized market hub, the municipal authorities aim to streamline commercial activities, improve public hygiene, and ensure that sellers no longer have to operate from unauthorized or hazardous locations along the roadside. The sod-cutting ceremony saw a large turnout of stakeholders, including high-ranking government officials, local residents, and representatives of the trading community. Speakers at the event emphasized that the market is a vital piece of infrastructure meant to enhance the livelihoods of thousands of people within the municipality. The project is anticipated to create immediate employment opportunities during the construction phase and, upon completion, serve as a cornerstone for sustainable urban growth and economic stability in the Ga West area.

Members of the Parliament Select Committee on Energy having a discussion with the management members of Sentuo Oil Refinery
energy and infrastructure|

Parliamentary Energy Committee to Review Dollar Payment Policy for Local Oil Refineries

Ghana’s Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy is set to conduct a formal review of the policy requiring local oil refineries to settle crude oil purchases in US dollars. Chaired by Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, the committee plans to investigate how this arrangement contributes to foreign exchange pressures and affects the operational stability of the domestic energy sector. The move follows growing calls from industry players to align payment systems with the local economic environment, particularly as refineries struggle with the volatility of the currency market. The core of the issue lies in a significant currency mismatch: while local refineries are mandated to pay for raw crude in US dollars, they primarily sell their finished petroleum products in Ghanaian cedis. This requirement has been identified as a major driver of demand for foreign exchange, often putting additional strain on the national reserves. Executives from the Sentuo Oil Refinery and other key stakeholders have been vocal advocates for reform, arguing that the current system creates an uneven playing field and hampers the growth of domestic refining capacity. When Parliament reconvenes in October, the committee will initiate broad consultations with stakeholders to evaluate the appropriateness of these dollar-denominated transactions. These discussions are expected to inform the development of two upcoming energy bills aimed at restructuring the sector. President John Mahama has previously expressed support for reconsidering the dollar payment mandate, viewing such a change as a strategic necessity to bolster the nation’s industrial base and ensure that local refineries can operate efficiently without being hindered by prohibitive exchange rate costs. The outcome of this parliamentary review could mark a significant shift in Ghana's downstream petroleum policy. By potentially transitioning to cedi-based payments or other alternative mechanisms, the government aims to reduce the economy's heavy reliance on the dollar for internal trade. Success in this area would not only support the financial health of refineries but also contribute to the broader goal of energy security and macroeconomic stability under the current administration.

Aliko Dangote Pledges $660 Million for Strategic Ethiopia-Djibouti Fuel Pipeline Project
energy and infrastructure|

Aliko Dangote Pledges $660 Million for Strategic Ethiopia-Djibouti Fuel Pipeline Project

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual, has committed to funding a transformative $660 million fuel pipeline project connecting Ethiopia and Djibouti. This strategic infrastructure venture aims to revolutionize energy logistics in the Horn of Africa by streamlining the transport of petroleum products between the two nations. The project centers on a 120-kilometer pipeline that will bridge Djibouti's Damerjog port with Dewele in Ethiopia, significantly reducing the region's reliance on heavy-duty road transport. Once operational, the pipeline is expected to provide a more reliable and cost-effective method for meeting Ethiopia's energy needs for years to come.\n\nThe infrastructure will include a massive storage facility with a capacity of 400 million liters, designed to ensure a steady supply of fuel for Ethiopia’s growing economy. One of the most significant advantages of the pipeline is the drastic reduction in delivery times; fuel transport that currently takes five days via truck is expected to be completed in just one day. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has lauded the joint venture, emphasizing that the project will enhance national energy security and build economic resilience while creating numerous jobs. This development is expected to alleviate transport pressures on existing road networks and lower the overall cost of energy distribution for consumers and businesses alike.\n\nExpected to begin operations within the next 18 months, the pipeline represents a major milestone in cross-border cooperation and regional industrialization. For Dangote, this investment is part of a broader strategy to expand his industrial footprint across the African continent, following the successful commissioning of his massive oil refinery in Nigeria and his extensive cement operations. The project underscores a growing trend of private-sector-led infrastructure development aimed at addressing critical gaps in Africa’s energy supply chains and fostering long-term economic stability in the Horn of Africa.

Ghana and Germany Forge Strategic Partnership to Modernize National Rail Infrastructure
energy and infrastructure|

Ghana and Germany Forge Strategic Partnership to Modernize National Rail Infrastructure

Ghana and Germany have initiated high-level talks aimed at transforming Ghana’s railway sector through advanced engineering and infrastructure cooperation. During a bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, met with his German counterpart, Federal Foreign Minister Dr. Johann Wadephul. The discussions centered on leveraging German technical expertise to modernize Ghana’s rail network, a critical component of the government's broader strategy to enhance national logistics and industrial capacity. The partnership is expected to extend beyond mere construction, focusing on comprehensive engineering solutions and the potential for significant German investment in Ghana’s economy. By tapping into Germany’s globally recognized railway technology, Ghana aims to revitalize its transport corridors, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers more efficiently. This collaboration aligns with President John Mahama’s administration’s focus on infrastructure-led economic growth and private-sector engagement to bridge the country’s developmental gaps. Beyond infrastructure, the diplomatic engagement addressed complex socio-economic challenges, including migration and human capital development. The two ministers explored the possibility of labor exchange programs designed to provide Ghanaian skilled workers with international experience while addressing German labor needs. Furthermore, the dialogue emphasized the importance of tackling irregular migration and implementing preventative measures against the recruitment of youth into regional conflicts, highlighting a shared commitment to security and stability. As the meeting concluded, both nations agreed to maintain close consultations to translate these high-level discussions into actionable projects. The immediate next step involves the development of a comprehensive implementation strategy that will outline the technical and financial frameworks for the proposed railway projects. This strategic alignment marks a significant step forward in Ghana-Germany relations, promising to deliver long-term benefits for Ghana’s transportation sector and its position as a regional economic hub.

Amin Adam Calls for Comprehensive Fuel Tax Review as Diesel Prices Persist Above GH¢18
energy and infrastructure|

Amin Adam Calls for Comprehensive Fuel Tax Review as Diesel Prices Persist Above GH¢18

Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, has called on the government to conduct an extensive review of petroleum taxes. He argues that the current GH¢2 relief on diesel prices, implemented by President John Mahama's administration, has proven insufficient in lowering costs for consumers and businesses. With retail diesel prices currently hovering between GH¢17.55 and GH¢18.99, Dr. Adam contends that more drastic measures are required to significantly alleviate the economic burden on Ghanaians. In a recent social media statement, the former Finance Minister pointed out that a GH¢1-per-litre levy currently in place effectively cancels out half of the government’s diesel relief. He further noted that other existing levies continue to drive up costs for industries, compounding the financial strain caused by the continued depreciation of the cedi. According to Dr. Adam, the currency’s decline remains a primary driver of high fuel prices, necessitating a more robust and comprehensive government intervention rather than piecemeal adjustments. Critiquing the current administration's strategy, Dr. Adam compared the NDC’s temporary price cuts to the previous NPP government’s approach. He claimed that past NPP measures were more effective because they focused on legislated tax abolitions and structural adjustments designed to provide permanent relief during periods of high global oil prices. He argued that the current GH¢2 reduction is a temporary solution that fails to address the underlying issues within the petroleum sector's pricing regime or bolster its long-term resilience. As fuel prices continue to impact the cost of living and industrial productivity, Dr. Adam urged the government to reconsider the entire tax structure on petroleum products. He emphasized that without a fundamental shift in policy and a more aggressive stance on stabilizing the cedi, the burden on consumers will likely persist. The call for a review sets the stage for a broader debate in Parliament regarding the sustainability of current energy subsidies and the long-term fiscal health of the nation's energy sector.

A wide-angle photograph of a large gas power plant facility, featuring multiple exhaust stacks and extensive electrical infrastructure. The site appears to be an active industrial zone with various technical structures, cooling units, and transmission towers under a bright sky.
energy and infrastructure|

President Mahama Announces Plans for Ghana’s Largest 1,200MW Gas-Fired Power Plant by 2026

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the Ghanaian government is on track to sign a landmark agreement for the construction of a 1,200-megawatt (MW) gas-fired thermal power plant by the end of 2026. Speaking at a town hall meeting in New York on September 25, 2025, the President revealed that the facility will be the largest state-owned power plant in the country upon completion. This ambitious project is central to the administration's strategy to bolster national energy security and provide a robust foundation for industrial growth. The initiative comes as a strategic response to the evolving global energy landscape, particularly the shift toward renewable energy and the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. President Mahama emphasized that developing this state-owned capacity is essential to avoid the risk of "stranded assets" and to ensure the government maintains control over critical energy infrastructure. While the President acknowledged that several Independent Power Producers (IPPs) are ready to invest in additional capacity, he clarified that the government is currently prioritizing the expansion of state-owned generation facilities to meet future demand. To support this expansion, the government has undertaken significant reforms within the energy sector to restore financial health and operational efficiency. President Mahama reported that substantial progress has been made in clearing energy sector debts and reorganizing the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). This restructuring is specifically aimed at prioritizing payments to power producers, thereby stabilizing the electricity supply and rebuilding investor confidence. Furthermore, increased investments in the nation’s oil and gas sector are expected to enhance the domestic gas supply required to fuel the new 1,200MW plant. This infrastructure development is viewed as a cornerstone of Ghana's broader economic stability and industrialization agenda. By ensuring a reliable and affordable power supply, the government aims to support a more resilient economy and a more stable currency. The 2026 deadline for the project agreement underscores the administration's commitment to rapid infrastructure delivery as it seeks to position Ghana as an energy hub in the West African sub-region.

energy and infrastructure|

Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly Sets Final Deadline for Kejetia Market Stall Payments Amid Phase Two Redevelopment

The Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, has issued a firm ultimatum to traders at the Kejetia Market, demanding the settlement of all outstanding premium payments for their stalls. Traders who fail to honor their financial obligations by the December 31, 2026, deadline face the immediate risk of losing their allocated spaces. This directive serves as a critical measure to streamline the management of the market and ensure that all beneficiaries contribute their fair share toward the sustainability of the facility. The urgency behind this demand is rooted in the financial health of the broader market redevelopment project. According to assembly officials, the accumulation of unpaid premiums has directly hindered the funding and progression of subsequent redevelopment phases. A significant €248 million loan was secured to finance Phase Two of the project, with construction activities expected to resume in October 2023. The KMA emphasizes that the timely collection of these funds is essential to service existing obligations and maintain the momentum of Kumasi’s infrastructure modernization. In addition to the payment deadline, the KMA Chief Executive warned traders against making unauthorized pre-payments for stalls in future phases of the market. Officials have urged the trading community to focus on resolving current arrears rather than speculating on future allocations. By addressing these key operational concerns, the assembly aims to create a more transparent and efficient system for all stakeholders involved in the Kejetia project, ensuring that the market remains a viable hub for commerce. As the redevelopment continues, the cooperation of the traders is seen as vital for the long-term economic stability of the Kumasi metropolis. The Kejetia Market is a cornerstone of regional trade, and its successful completion depends on the mutual fulfillment of agreements between the local government and the business community. Failure to meet the 2026 deadline could lead to a significant reallocation of stalls, potentially altering the commercial landscape and the relationship between the city and its vendors.