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.

GOIL and Star Oil to Hold Fuel Prices Steady Despite Projected October 1 Hikes
energy and infrastructure|

GOIL and Star Oil to Hold Fuel Prices Steady Despite Projected October 1 Hikes

Ghanaian consumers face a mixed outlook for petroleum pricing starting October 1, 2026, as market predictions of significant price hikes are met with a commitment from major Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to maintain current rates. The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has forecasted marginal increases across the board, driven by rising international crude oil prices and the continued depreciation of the Ghana cedi. According to COMAC projections, petrol prices could rise by up to 3.31% to approximately GH"17.91 per litre, while diesel is expected to increase by as much as 5.60%, potentially reaching GH"19.60 per litre. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is also anticipated to see a 2.25% uptick, bringing the price to roughly GH"17.06 per kilogram. In a significant move to shield consumers from these inflationary pressures, industry leaders GOIL PLC and Star Oil have announced they will not implement price increases for the upcoming pricing window. GOIL CEO Edward Abambire Bawah and Star Oil CEO Kwame Tieku confirmed their respective companies would absorb rising costs rather than passing them on to the public. This decision comes despite the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) upwardly adjusting price floors to GH"16.45 for petrol and GH"17.97 for diesel. These price floors represent the minimum allowable charges before additional costs from international oil trading companies and local market operators are factored in. To further alleviate the burden on diesel consumers, the government has introduced temporary fiscal relief measures. These include the suspension of the GH"1-per-litre Energy Sector Shortfall Levy for a period of two months. Such interventions are viewed as critical, particularly as the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) had earlier warned of even steeper potential increases, suggesting diesel could have spiked by nearly 23% without mitigation. The current economic climate remains under pressure from the cedi's depreciation, which recently fell to GH"11.6321 against the US dollar, a decline of 1.27%. Looking ahead, the volatility in Ghana's energy sector continues to be influenced by complex geopolitical factors, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and tensions in the Middle East. While the commitment from GOIL and Star Oil provides immediate relief, the broader market remains sensitive to global crude supply disruptions and the strength of the local currency. Industry analysts suggest that while the current window may remain stable for customers of specific OMCs, the long-term pricing trajectory will depend heavily on the effectiveness of government interventions and the stability of the international oil market.

Efia Odo Urges Ghana Police to Fix Faulty Traffic Lights Before Rolling Out TRAFFITECH-GH Enforcement Cameras
energy and infrastructure|

Efia Odo Urges Ghana Police to Fix Faulty Traffic Lights Before Rolling Out TRAFFITECH-GH Enforcement Cameras

The Ghana Police Service's introduction of the TRAFFITECH-GH initiative, an automated system designed to capture traffic violations via cameras, has met with significant public scrutiny. Critics, led by social media personality Efia Odo, are questioning the timing and logic of deploying advanced enforcement technology while fundamental road infrastructure remains in disrepair. The initiative aims to enhance road safety by automating the issuance of fines for offenses such as speeding and running red lights, yet it has sparked a debate over the state’s priorities regarding transport management. Efia Odo’s critique centers on the widespread issue of malfunctioning traffic lights across the country, particularly in major urban centers. She argues that it is inherently flawed to install high-tech cameras to penalize motorists when the very signals they are meant to follow are frequently out of service. Her stance reflects a broader frustration among commuters who believe that the government should prioritize the maintenance of existing traffic control systems. By focusing on enforcement before fixing the infrastructure, she suggests that the authorities may be putting the cart before the horse, potentially leading to unfair penalties for drivers navigating chaotic intersections. The TRAFFITECH-GH system represents a modernization of the Ghana Police Service's traffic management strategy, utilizing sensors and cameras to reduce the need for physical police presence at every junction. While the technology is intended to curb accidents and improve driver discipline, the public discourse highlighted by Odo emphasizes a lack of synergy between the Ministry of Roads and Highways and the police. Many citizens argue that for an automated enforcement system to be credible and effective, the physical environment—including clear road markings and functional signaling—must first meet a reliable standard. As the rollout continues, the conversation remains focused on whether the Ghana Police Service will address these infrastructure gaps in tandem with the new technology. The backlash serves as a reminder that technological solutions to public safety issues must be supported by basic service delivery. Moving forward, the success of TRAFFITECH-GH may depend not just on its ability to catch offenders, but on the government's commitment to ensuring that the road infrastructure being monitored is actually fit for purpose.

Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Kudzo Edudzi Tameklo, Esq
energy and infrastructure|

NPA CEO Godwin Tameklo Pledges Infrastructure and Welfare Reforms to Resolve Tanker Driver Grievances

Godwin Kudzo Edudzi Tameklo, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), has held a high-level meeting with the leadership of the Ghana National Petroleum Tankers Drivers Union (GNPTDU) to address critical welfare concerns and infrastructure deficits affecting the industry. The engagement follows a recent strike action by the union, which was subsequently suspended to allow for negotiations. The meeting underscores the NPA's proactive approach to ensuring the stability of the petroleum downstream sector by addressing the grievances of the workforce responsible for the cross-country transportation of fuel products. During the discussions, the union highlighted several debilitating factors impacting their operations, most notably the deteriorating state of the Tema Oil Refinery-Kpone Road and the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation (BOST) yard. These logistical bottlenecks, coupled with inadequate compensation for long-distance journeys on hazardous roads, have placed a significant strain on the drivers. GNPTDU Chairman George Nyaunu expressed the urgency of these concerns, while also extending an apology to the NPA for failing to provide formal notice before the recent industrial action, citing the mounting pressure and frustration among his members. In response, Mr. Tameklo assured the union that the NPA is committed to championing their cause within the broader framework of government infrastructure development. He specifically pledged to advocate for the inclusion of the Tema Oil Refinery-Kpone Road in the national infrastructure program, recognizing its strategic importance to the energy sector. Beyond road repairs, the CEO emphasized a commitment to reviewing compensation structures and improving the overall safety and working conditions for industry operators. This collaborative dialogue is expected to pave the way for long-term solutions that safeguard the welfare of drivers while ensuring the uninterrupted supply of petroleum products across the country.

energy and infrastructure|

Minister Joseph Tegbe Announces Nigeria’s Plan to Create Special Energy Zones for Constant Power Supply

The Nigerian government has unveiled an ambitious plan to establish special energy zones designed to provide uninterrupted, 24-hour electricity to the nation’s primary commercial and industrial hubs. Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe announced the initiative, which seeks to transform the country’s energy landscape by prioritizing regions with high economic activity. By focusing on reliable power delivery in these specific zones, the government aims to alleviate the chronic electricity constraints that have long hampered industrial productivity and slowed national economic progress. The project is slated for development along several strategic corridors, including the Lagos metropolitan area, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano route, and the Enugu-Port Harcourt axis. These regions represent the backbone of Nigeria’s manufacturing and trade sectors. Under the framework of President Bola Tinubu’s "Renewed Hope Agenda," the establishment of these zones is viewed as a critical step toward modernizing national infrastructure. The initiative is not merely about increasing supply but about creating a stable environment where businesses can operate without the prohibitive costs of private power generation. A key component of the strategy involves deep collaboration with local electricity distribution companies (DisCos). By concentrating resources on these high-demand zones, the government intends to help these firms improve their revenue collection and overall financial health. Closing the service delivery gap in these areas is expected to create a more sustainable business model for the power sector while ensuring that key industries receive the service quality required for international competitiveness. This move comes at a pivotal time for Nigeria as it seeks to revitalize its economy and attract foreign direct investment. While the immediate focus is on these industrial clusters, the broader implication is a phased approach to national grid stability and energy security. If successful, the special energy zones could serve as a blueprint for wider infrastructure reforms across the West African sub-region, demonstrating the impact of targeted energy interventions on macroeconomic stability.

GAPTE Reports Drastic Reduction in Adenta-Accra Travel Time via New Ayalolo BRT Contra-flow
energy and infrastructure|

GAPTE Reports Drastic Reduction in Adenta-Accra Travel Time via New Ayalolo BRT Contra-flow

The Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) has announced a major breakthrough in urban mobility following the implementation of a new contra-flow arrangement on the Adenta-Accra corridor. On the first day of the initiative, travel times during the morning peak hours plummeted from a grueling 2.5 hours to just 23 minutes. This significant improvement centers on the Ayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services, which were able to bypass standard traffic congestion through the dedicated lane management strategy. During the initial rollout, approximately 8,000 passengers were transported efficiently, demonstrating the immediate impact of the intervention on the capital's busiest commuter route. The contra-flow system operates specifically during peak hours to maximize throughput when demand is highest. To ensure safety and order, the operation is heavily supported by officers from the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, who manage the flow of both transit buses and private vehicles. GAPTE officials emphasized that the success of this strategy stems from a shift in focus toward moving people rather than merely moving vehicles. By prioritizing high-capacity passenger transportation, the executive aims to alleviate the chronic gridlock that characterizes the Adenta-Accra stretch. Moving forward, GAPTE is urging the motoring public to cooperate with traffic wardens and accept the new management strategy as a necessary step toward modernizing Accra's transport infrastructure and improving the daily lives of thousands of commuters.

Suame Interchange Project Set to Transform Kumasi Traffic as Urban Roads Forecasts April 2028 Completion
energy and infrastructure|

Suame Interchange Project Set to Transform Kumasi Traffic as Urban Roads Forecasts April 2028 Completion

The Ashanti Regional Director of Urban Roads, Ing. Nana Atta Poku Agyemang, has highlighted the transformative potential of the Suame Interchange project, asserting that its completion will drastically alleviate the chronic traffic congestion currently plaguing Kumasi. As a centerpiece of the government’s ambitious "Big Push" infrastructure initiative, the multi-tiered interchange is designed to streamline vehicular movement across one of the busiest transit points in the Ashanti Region. The project underscores the current administration's commitment to modernizing urban transport networks to support economic growth and improve the daily lives of residents in Ghana's second-largest city. Structured into two distinct phases, the Suame Interchange project involves the construction of a main interchange alongside an extensive network of associated local roads. While the official completion date for the primary structure is currently set for April 2028, Ing. Agyemang indicated that the project timeline remains dynamic. He noted that the contractor is currently reviewing work schedules, which could potentially lead to an earlier-than-expected delivery. This flexibility reflects the urgency with which the Department of Urban Roads is approaching Kumasi’s infrastructure deficits, ensuring that the heavy construction phase causes as little prolonged disruption as possible to local businesses and commuters. Beyond immediate traffic relief, the Suame Interchange is a vital component of Kumasi’s broader inner ring road network strategy. By creating a more efficient corridor for both local traffic and long-distance transport, the interchange is expected to significantly reduce travel times and enhance overall connectivity within the metropolitan area. Urban road officials emphasize that this development is not merely about road capacity but about creating a resilient urban framework that can accommodate future population growth. As work progresses, the focus remains on ensuring that the final infrastructure meets international safety and engineering standards while providing a permanent solution to the bottlenecks that have long hindered movement in the Suame enclave.

Roads Minister says it is time to change one-year defect liability period for contractors, consultants
energy and infrastructure|

Roads Minister Governs Agbodza Proposes Extended Contractor Liability Periods to Safeguard Public Infrastructure

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has initiated a push to reform road construction contracts by extending the standard one-year defect liability period for contractors and consultants. Speaking during a site inspection of the Accra-Kumasi N6 highway in September 2025, the Minister argued that the current twelve-month window is insufficient to hold firms accountable for the long-term quality of their work. This proposal aims to ensure that public investments in the nation’s road network result in durable infrastructure that withstands the test of time and environmental factors. Agbodza emphasized that the government under President John Mahama is committed to high-quality engineering and responsible fiscal management. By lengthening the liability period, contractors would be legally required to rectify structural failures or surfacing issues that emerge well after the initial project completion. The Minister indicated that he is already engaging with his counterparts in the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Works and Housing to develop a revised framework for these contracts. He expressed strong confidence in the capabilities of Ghanaian engineers but stressed that this expertise must be matched by a rigorous accountability mechanism to prevent the premature deterioration of new roads. In addition to these policy discussions, the Ministry has addressed recent reports regarding access issues on the N6 highway involving the church associated with Adom Kyei Duah. Kojo Danquah, a spokesperson for the Minister, clarified that Agbodza did not accuse the church of blocking the road, contrary to some recent headlines. According to the spokesperson, the claim regarding the blockage originated from the project contractor during the site visit, not the Minister. Video evidence from the inspection reportedly shows Agbodza instructing officials to facilitate better access for the church while ensuring that drainage and road safety standards are strictly maintained. These developments highlight a dual focus for the Ministry: immediate project management and long-term systemic reform. By addressing both specific localized grievances and the broader contractual loopholes that allow for substandard work, the Ministry seeks to maximize the lifespan of Ghana's transport corridors. As the government continues its infrastructure drive, the proposed changes to liability periods are expected to set a new benchmark for the construction industry, compelling consultants and contractors to prioritize excellence and sustainability in every kilometer paved.

Progress and Financial Hurdles Mark Final Stages of Afram Plains Irrigation Projects
energy and infrastructure|

Progress and Financial Hurdles Mark Final Stages of Afram Plains Irrigation Projects

The agricultural landscape of the Kwahu Afram Plains is on the verge of a significant transformation as two major irrigation projects reach their final stages of development. While the Konadu Irrigation Project is slated for commissioning within the next month, the Ekyeamamfrom-Pivot Irrigation Project remains stalled at 90% completion due to outstanding government payments. These initiatives, central to the Afram Plains Economic Enclave Irrigation Project (APEEIP), are designed to move local agriculture away from rain-fed dependence toward year-round commercial production, focusing on cereals, vegetables, and tubers. The Konadu Irrigation Project, currently 96% complete, represents a major milestone for the region’s infrastructure. According to Project Manager Josh Roche, the facility will cover approximately 900 hectares using a combination of center-pivot and gravity irrigation systems. The project is designed under an anchor-tenant and outgrower model, which aims to integrate smallholder farmers with commercial operators to ensure professional standards and market access. Once operational, the Konadu facility is expected to significantly boost the production of cereals and vegetables, providing a reliable water source that facilitates modern farming techniques and multiple harvests per year. In contrast, the Ekyeamamfrom-Pivot Irrigation Project faces a critical bottleneck despite being 90% finished. Project Manager Anthony Abubakar has issued an urgent appeal to the government to settle three outstanding payment certificates that have remained unpaid for nearly a year. During a recent site visit by Parliament’s Committee on Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs, Abubakar explained that the lack of funds is the only remaining barrier to completing the 350-acre facility. He emphasized that with the necessary financial release, the project—which is set to support the cultivation of high-demand crops like potatoes and tomatoes—could be fully operational by the end of the year. The completion of both projects is vital for the economic stability of the Afram Plains, where local farmers have already expressed readiness to begin production. The stalled progress at Ekyeamamfrom threatens to delay the livelihoods of hundreds of farmers who are waiting to utilize the new infrastructure. As the government prepares to commission the Konadu site, stakeholders and parliamentary representatives are calling for a swift resolution to the payment delays at Ekyeamamfrom to ensure that the massive potential of the Afram Plains as Ghana's breadbasket is fully realized through consistent and modernized irrigation.

The ABC of Ghana’s energy sector:
energy and infrastructure|

Ghana’s Energy Sector Evolution: From Hydroelectric Foundations to a Diversified Industrial Power Grid

Ghana is at a critical juncture in its energy evolution as it seeks to transition from a raw-material exporter to an industrial powerhouse under the administration of President John Mahama. Central to this economic transformation is a comprehensive understanding of the country's power infrastructure, which has evolved from a single-source hydroelectric system into a complex network of thermal, renewable, and hydro sources. As the lifeblood of the modern economy, the stability and efficiency of the energy sector remain paramount for citizens, investors, and business owners who rely on consistent power for growth and sustainability. This strategic shift is necessary to ensure the grid can support the heavy demands of industrialization while remaining resilient to environmental and economic pressures. The foundation of Ghana's power journey began with the commissioning of the Akosombo Dam in 1965, which provided affordable electricity for decades and fueled the nation's early development. However, the system's inherent vulnerability to seasonal droughts and fluctuating rainfall patterns eventually necessitated a strategic pivot toward thermal power. While thermal plants utilize fossil fuels to provide a reliable base load and stabilize the national grid, they introduce significant financial challenges due to the high cost of fuel procurement. To mitigate these expenses and align with global environmental goals, Ghana is now aggressively exploring an emerging renewable energy sector, with a focus on solar and wind power to enhance long-term sustainability. The movement of electricity from generation sites to end-users involves a sophisticated process managed by key state entities. The Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) is responsible for the high-voltage transmission of power across the country, acting as the backbone of the energy network. Once transmitted, local distribution is managed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo). This phase of the value chain remains one of the sector's most pressing challenges, particularly regarding technical losses—where energy is lost as heat through aging infrastructure—and commercial losses resulting from unpaid bills or power theft. Addressing these systemic inefficiencies is essential for Ghana’s broader industrial ambitions and fiscal health. Reducing distribution losses and successfully diversifying the energy mix are not merely technical goals but economic imperatives that directly affect national revenue and industrial competitiveness. As the government and stakeholders navigate this complex landscape, fostering public awareness and active citizen engagement in energy conversations will be vital. Only through a transparent and efficient power sector can Ghana sustain its current growth trajectory and secure its position as an industrial leader in the West African sub-region.

Aliko Dangote and President William Ruto Break Ground on $16 Billion East Africa Petroleum Refinery in Kenya
energy and infrastructure|

Aliko Dangote and President William Ruto Break Ground on $16 Billion East Africa Petroleum Refinery in Kenya

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote and Kenyan President William Ruto have officially launched the construction of the Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery in Lamu, Kenya. This $16 billion project represents the largest industrial undertaking in East Africa, featuring a projected processing capacity of 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day. The facility is strategically designed to reduce the continent's heavy reliance on foreign refined oil and foster regional energy independence. During the groundbreaking ceremony, Dangote emphasized the critical need for African nations to add value to their natural resources, rather than exporting raw materials and importing finished goods at a premium. The refinery is a central component of Dangote’s broader $50 billion investment strategy across Africa. Beyond fuel production, the site will host a 1,000-megawatt power plant intended to catalyze regional industrialization and generate approximately 60,000 jobs. While the refinery will initially rely on imported crude, project officials and President Ruto noted that the facility will source from various global markets with long-term plans to integrate regional production as East African oil fields are developed. This infrastructure is expected to provide a substantial economic boost to the national economy and improve the energy security of the entire region. However, the project faces significant hurdles from local communities and environmental advocates. Residents in the Lamu region have staged protests demanding fairer compensation for land rights, and a group of activists has filed a lawsuit to halt construction pending more rigorous environmental assessments. Critics have also questioned the logic of building a massive refinery in Kenya, which is not currently a major oil producer. Despite these challenges, Dangote has dismissed concerns, stating that construction will proceed toward a 2030 completion target. The project’s success will ultimately depend on navigating these legal disputes and meeting environmental standards in the ecologically sensitive Lamu area.

energy and infrastructure|

Nigeria to Establish Special Energy Zones for 24-Hour Power Supply in Industrial Hubs

The Nigerian government has announced a strategic initiative to establish dedicated "special energy zones" designed to provide uninterrupted, 24-hour electricity supply to the country’s primary commercial and industrial hubs. Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe revealed the plan, which seeks to insulate critical economic corridors from the broader grid’s historical reliability issues. This move is a central component of President Bola Tinubu’s "Renewed Hope Agenda," aiming to revitalize the nation’s industrial sector by removing one of its most significant bottlenecks: the high cost and inconsistent availability of power. According to the Minister, these zones will be strategically located along Nigeria’s most vital economic arteries. Key areas identified for the initial rollout include the Lagos metropolitan area, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano route, and the Enugu-Port Harcourt axis. By focusing on these specific corridors, the government intends to create high-efficiency "pockets" of energy stability. This approach involves significant infrastructure upgrades and a collaborative framework with local electricity distribution companies (DisCos). The goal is to ensure that businesses within these zones can operate without the heavy reliance on expensive diesel generators, thereby reducing operational costs and increasing global competitiveness. Beyond the immediate benefits to manufacturers and businesses, the initiative is designed to address systemic financial weaknesses within the Nigerian power sector. By guaranteeing 24-hour supply to industrial consumers—who are traditionally the highest-paying customers—the government hopes to significantly enhance the revenue collection of distribution firms. This revenue boost is expected to provide DisCos with the necessary capital to close existing service delivery gaps across the wider network. The Minister emphasized that these special zones represent a shift toward a more market-driven and sustainable energy model, where infrastructure investment is directly tied to economic productivity. The establishment of these energy zones marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s efforts to solve its perennial electricity challenges. While the success of the project will depend heavily on the rapid deployment of technical infrastructure and the efficiency of the participating DisCos, the policy signals a clear prioritization of industrial growth as a driver for national development. As the plan moves toward implementation, stakeholders in the Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt corridors will be watching closely to see if these "islands of stability" can eventually serve as a blueprint for nationwide energy reform.

energy and infrastructure|

UK Negotiates Strategic Fuel Reserve Release with EU Amid Record Diesel Prices and US Export Threats

The United Kingdom has entered high-level discussions with European Union partners to potentially release additional strategic fuel reserves, specifically diesel, as domestic prices reach record highs. The move is a response to mounting pressure on global energy markets, recently exacerbated by President Trump's threat to ban US diesel exports in an effort to lower American domestic fuel costs. With British diesel prices currently nearing 200p per litre, UK Energy Minister Martin McCluskey is coordinating with European counterparts to ensure a synchronized response to the pricing volatility. While the UK government maintains there is no immediate concern regarding a physical shortage of diesel, the focus has shifted toward stabilizing costs for consumers and the logistics sector. The global diesel market is currently under significant strain due to a confluence of geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions. The United States is a major exporter, typically sending between 1.2 and 1.5 million barrels of diesel to international markets daily; industry experts warn that a US export ban would drastically reduce global availability and drive prices even higher. These concerns are compounded by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, ongoing sanctions against Russian energy exports, and the broader regional instability following the US-Israel war. As the UK remains heavily dependent on diesel imports to meet its energy needs, these international developments have a direct and rapid impact on the cost of living at home. In addition to the talks with EU partners, the UK government is preparing for a scheduled meeting with the International Energy Agency (IEA) to evaluate the collective stock of strategic reserves. These reserves are designed to be deployed during periods of significant market disruption to provide a buffer against sudden shocks. Despite the record-breaking prices at the pumps, the Department for Energy and Net Zero has stressed that the UK’s fuel supply remains resilient. Current vehicle statistics indicate a slight year-on-year decline in diesel vehicle ownership, yet the fuel remains the backbone of Britain's heavy transport and delivery infrastructure, making price stability a critical economic priority. The outcome of these international negotiations will be pivotal in determining whether the UK can successfully temper the inflationary pressure caused by energy costs. If a coordinated release of reserves is triggered, it would aim to offset the potential loss of American supply and reassure markets. However, the long-term outlook remains tied to the geopolitical climate and the actual implementation of US trade policies. For now, the UK continues to balance its immediate price-mitigation strategies with broader efforts to maintain energy security in an increasingly unpredictable global market.