Tema Oil Refinery creates 8,157 jobs through recovery efforts

Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), Edmond Kombat, has announced that the refinery’s operational recovery has resulted in the creation of 8,157 jobs for Ghanaians. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on October 26, 2026, Kombat highlighted that the rehabilitation of the national asset has provided a significant boost to the local labor market. This expansion includes a combination of direct technical roles and a large number of indirect positions within the downstream petroleum industry.

The recovery program has specifically generated 1,657 direct jobs, encompassing both permanent and temporary roles. Among these are 415 permanent positions and 301 temporary roles specifically designated for maintenance and rehabilitation tasks. Kombat noted that the recruitment drive has prioritized young Ghanaian engineers and professionals, aiming to build a sustainable workforce to support the refinery's return to consistent, long-term operations.

Beyond the refinery's internal staffing, approximately 6,500 indirect jobs have been created in related sectors. These roles have emerged through the engagement of local contractors, service providers, and suppliers who support the facility's maintenance and broader operations. The Managing Director emphasized that the resurgence of TOR is creating a vital economic ripple effect, strengthening the capacity of indigenous businesses and providing steady employment across the petroleum value chain.

The successful recovery of TOR is seen as a cornerstone of the administration’s efforts to enhance national energy security and reduce the country's reliance on imported refined products. Looking ahead, Kombat indicated that the refinery is pursuing further expansion projects, including the development of a new refinery and petrochemical facilities. These initiatives are expected to further increase TOR's contribution to national economic growth and ensure a more stable energy future for Ghana.