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.

Road Minister Governs Agbodza Issues Ultimatum to Consultants and Contractors Over Infrastructure Delays
energy and infrastructure|

Road Minister Governs Agbodza Issues Ultimatum to Consultants and Contractors Over Infrastructure Delays

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has intensified oversight of major national infrastructure projects, issuing a stern warning to supervising consultants and contractors regarding delays and absenteeism. During a series of site inspections on September 29, 2025, the Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the pace and management of key arterial roads, emphasizing that the administration of President John Mahama will not tolerate inefficiencies that hinder national development. The tour covered critical projects including the Accra-Kumasi Bypass, the Kumasi Outer Ring Road, and the Suame Interchange. At the Accra-Kumasi Bypass project, Minister Agbodza summoned the supervising consulting firm, ADK, following their noticeable absence from the site. The Minister highlighted the indispensable role of consultants in maintaining engineering standards and criticized the firm's failure to provide regular progress updates. He warned that unless a satisfactory explanation is provided for the lapse in supervision, he would recommend the consultant’s immediate removal. Agbodza noted that the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) stands ready to take over supervisory duties to ensure the project remains on track, while simultaneously commending the site workers for their continued efforts despite the lack of consultant presence. The Minister also turned his attention to the Kumasi Outer Ring Road, where he urged Arab Contractors Ghana Limited to accelerate their work program. Expressing concern over the slow pace of progress, Agbodza directed the contractor to transition rapidly from earthworks to concrete works and to manage multiple sections of the road simultaneously wherever site access permits. He clarified that no extensions to project timelines would be granted unless they were technically justified, describing the scale of the Kumasi Outer Ring Road as unprecedented in Ghana’s history and requiring a matching level of efficiency and dedication. Further addressing systemic bottlenecks, Minister Agbodza directed road agencies and consultants to drastically shorten the timeframe for construction design reviews. During an inspection of the Suame Interchange, he criticized the current lengthy feedback loops and proposed that design review sessions be concluded in single sittings. To facilitate this, he suggested establishing temporary facilities at project sites to allow for on-the-spot technical adjustments based on real-world conditions. These measures are intended to ensure that major infrastructure projects under the Mahama administration are delivered with high quality, on schedule, and without the administrative delays that have historically plagued the sector.

COMAC Warns of Fuel Supply Crisis, Urges Indefinite Suspension of Customs Act Section 136
energy and infrastructure|

COMAC Warns of Fuel Supply Crisis, Urges Indefinite Suspension of Customs Act Section 136

The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has formally requested the indefinite suspension of Section 136 of the Customs Act, 2026, warning that the provision could trigger a national fuel supply crisis and destabilize the downstream petroleum industry. The controversial section mandates a transfer of tax accounting responsibilities from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to Bulk Import, Distribution, and Export Companies (BIDECs). According to COMAC, this shift is fundamentally flawed and risks creating significant disruptions in the fuel supply chain while potentially harming the broader economy. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Dr. Riverson Oppong, the Chamber argues that the rationale for shifting tax obligations to BIDECs is unconvincing. COMAC asserts that rather than streamlining revenue collection, the new law may actually delay it, as BIDECs typically require more time than OMCs to settle tax obligations. Furthermore, the Chamber contends that concentrating tax liabilities at the BIDEC level increases systemic risk. Because BIDECs manage significantly larger volumes of fuel than individual OMCs, any financial or administrative bottleneck at this stage could result in an immediate and widespread fuel shortage across the country. A central grievance expressed by the Chamber is the perceived lack of adequate consultation with industry stakeholders before the legislation was enacted. COMAC has highlighted that while it supports other sections of the Customs Act and remains committed to improving tax compliance among its members, Section 136 was introduced without addressing underlying flaws in the revenue collection system. The organization has reached out to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to seek clarification on perceived inequities among OMCs and to advocate for a more collaborative approach to legislative changes that affect the energy sector. The potential consequences of enforcing Section 136 in its current form include not only a national "supply shock" but also the accumulation of substantial tax arrears for the GRA. COMAC is urging Parliament and relevant authorities to consider amendments that provide greater clarity and fairness to all players in the petroleum value chain. By advocating for the suspension of this provision, the Chamber seeks to prevent a destabilization of the petroleum sector and ensure that tax reforms enhance, rather than jeopardize, the country’s energy security and economic stability.

A row of green and black Aayalolo buses, branded with the Scania logo, are lined up in a parking area in Ghana. A man wearing a dark green uniform leans against the front bus on the left, while the fleet stretches into the background under a pale sky.
energy and infrastructure|

Minister Mahama Ayariga Announces Aayalolo Contra-Flow System and Fixed Schedules to Revolutionize Accra Commutes

The Government of Ghana has launched a pilot contra-flow arrangement for Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services, a strategic move aimed at significantly reducing traffic congestion in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area. Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, announced that the initiative, which begins on September 29, 2026, is designed to expedite the movement of high-capacity buses during peak hours. By dedicating specific lanes for BRT use, the government intends to provide a faster and more reliable alternative for thousands of commuters entering the Central Business District. The new traffic regulations will focus on four critical corridors: Amasaman–Accra, Pokuase–Accra, Adenta–Accra, and Kasoa–Accra. To ensure the success of the contra-flow system, the Ministry is collaborating closely with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE), and the Department of Urban Roads. The dedicated lanes will be strictly reserved for Aayalolo buses during peak morning hours (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM) and evening hours (4:00 PM to 8:00 PM), effectively barring other vehicles to maintain a steady flow of mass transit. A central pillar of this expansion is the introduction of fixed departure schedules. Minister Ayariga emphasized that Aayalolo buses will now depart at set times regardless of passenger numbers, a move aimed at improving commuter trust and planning. This strategy specifically targets private motorists and solo drivers, encouraging them to switch from their personal cars to public transport. By offering a comfortable and predictable service, the government hopes to reduce the sheer volume of private vehicles on the road, which is a primary driver of the city’s gridlock. Addressing concerns regarding the impact on existing commercial transport, Minister Ayariga clarified that the BRT expansion is intended to complement, rather than undermine, traditional trotro operations. The proposed model suggests a clear distribution of roles: Aayalolo buses will prioritize long-distance, high-capacity trips directly into the city center, while trotros will continue to serve their vital role in handling shorter-distance routes and neighborhood connections. This integrated approach seeks to create a more efficient urban transport ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders and improves the overall quality of life for Accra's residents.

ecg
energy and infrastructure|

PUWU Postpones Nationwide Protest Against Private Sector Involvement in ECG Following Ministry Talks

The Public Utilities Workers’ Union (PUWU) has suspended its scheduled nationwide protest against the proposed Private Sector Participation (PSP) in the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The decision to hold off on the industrial action came after a series of high-level discussions between the union’s leadership and the Ministry of Energy, which commenced on September 28, 2025. While the union had originally intended to mobilize workers across all operational regions to voice their opposition to the management changes, the planned gathering at the Trades Union Congress (TUC) headquarters in Accra did not take place as officials returned to the negotiating table. At the heart of the dispute is the government's plan to introduce private sector management into the state-owned power distributor. PUWU has expressed significant concerns regarding how this move might affect job security, utility pricing, and the overall sovereignty of Ghana’s energy infrastructure. The union had initially prepared a formal petition to be presented to President John Dramani Mahama through various regional ministers. This petition outlines the workers' grievances and argues against what they perceive as the potential privatization of a critical national asset, urging the administration to explore alternative reforms that do not involve private equity. The Ministry of Energy's intervention appears to have temporarily de-escalated the situation. Sources indicate that the ministry is seeking to provide further clarification on the scope of the PSP, emphasizing that the arrangement is intended to improve operational efficiency rather than an outright sale of the company. However, the union remains cautious, awaiting concrete assurances that their members' interests and the public's access to affordable electricity will be protected. The postponement is viewed as a gesture of good faith while the parties attempt to find common ground on the future of ECG’s management structure. The future of the protest now hinges on the outcome of these ongoing negotiations. If the discussions fail to address the union's core demands, PUWU has indicated that the nationwide demonstrations could be rescheduled. For now, the Ministry of Energy and the union leadership are expected to continue their dialogue throughout the coming weeks. The resolution of this standoff will be a significant test for President Mahama’s administration as it seeks to balance infrastructure modernization with the concerns of organized labor in a vital sector of the economy.

COPEC Forecasts Surge in Fuel Prices: Diesel to Jump 22.91% Starting October 1
energy and infrastructure|

COPEC Forecasts Surge in Fuel Prices: Diesel to Jump 22.91% Starting October 1

Motorists and businesses across Ghana are bracing for a substantial hike in petroleum costs as the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) projects significant price increases effective October 1, 2026. Diesel consumers are expected to bear the heaviest burden, with prices projected to soar by 22.91%, rising from the current GH"18.24 to GH"22.42 per litre. Petrol prices are also slated for an upward adjustment of approximately 5.21%, likely moving from GH"16.90 to GH"17.78 per litre, while Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is expected to reach GH"15.68 per kilogramme. The projected price surge is primarily driven by volatility in the international energy market and local currency challenges. According to COPEC, international benchmark prices for petroleum products have climbed significantly, with crude prices rising from approximately $103.07 to $124 per barrel. This global trend is compounded by the continued depreciation of the Ghana Cedi against the US Dollar, which directly increases the landing cost of imported refined products. Paul Ofori, Head of Research at COPEC, noted that these factors combined necessitate the projected adjustments for the first pricing window of October. In response to these projections, COPEC has issued a dual appeal to both private sector players and the government to mitigate the impact on the public. The Chamber is urging Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to consider absorbing a portion of the price hike by reducing their profit margins. While some projections suggest diesel could hit the GH"22 mark, research indicates that strategic government intervention could potentially cap the increase for diesel to between 11% and 12%, which would keep prices in the GH"18 to GH"21 range. Beyond immediate price relief, COPEC is advocating for long-term structural reforms to safeguard Ghana’s energy security. The Chamber has renewed its call for the government to prioritize the expansion and modernization of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR). By boosting local refining capacity, COPEC argues that Ghana can significantly reduce its heavy reliance on expensive imported petroleum products and better insulate the local economy from global market shocks. As the October 1 deadline approaches, the anticipated hikes are expected to have a ripple effect on transportation costs and general inflation across the country.

A man wearing a traditional Ghanaian smock is captured speaking into a microphone during what appears to be a television interview or press briefing. Behind him is a vibrant yellow and green background with the words 'the news' partially visible, indicating a media setting.
energy and infrastructure|

Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe Unveils Maritime Hub Vision as CEMSE Urges Overhaul of Fishing Subsidies

Ghana's government is intensifying efforts to transform the maritime sector into a robust economic engine, with Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe detailing plans to solidify the nation’s status as a West African logistics hub. While the state focuses on port expansion and operational efficiency, energy experts from the Centre for Energy and Sustainable Management (CEMSE) are calling for a parallel reform in the fishing industry. The proposed shifts aim to leverage Ghana's maritime geography—which accounts for 80-90% of trade volume—to drive sustainable growth and reduce reliance on imports. Minister Nikpe revealed that the government is moving forward with the expansion of Tema Port and the implementation of 24-hour operations to streamline trade. Additionally, Takoradi Port is slated for a strategic transformation into a specialized center for oil and gas services. To further enhance safety and local expertise, the government plans to establish a hydrographic office capable of producing local navigation charts. These initiatives are designed to create jobs and improve the ease of doing business, though industry experts emphasize that the success of these projects hinges on effective policy implementation, increased digitalization, and human capacity development. Complementing these infrastructure goals, CEMSE CEO Benjamin Nsiah has advocated for a significant policy shift regarding premix fuel. Nsiah urged the government to eliminate the existing premix fuel subsidy, describing it as inefficient and a source of financial strain on national revenue. He noted that the current system often fails its intended beneficiaries, with subsidized fuel frequently sold at inflated prices on the black market. Instead, CEMSE proposes redirecting these funds into a productivity-based credit subsidy system and enhancing physical fishing infrastructure, which would provide fisherfolk with the necessary tools and capital to boost local production. The convergence of infrastructure expansion and subsidy reform highlights a critical juncture for Ghana’s blue economy. By transitioning from direct fuel subsidies to targeted credit support and modernized port facilities, the government could address both fiscal leakages and logistics bottlenecks. As Ghana seeks to maintain its competitive edge in the sub-region, the integration of these high-level maritime policies with ground-level support for the fishing community remains essential for long-term economic stability and maritime excellence.

President John Dramani Mahama addressing the Ghanaian community during the town hall meeting in New York
energy and infrastructure|

President Mahama Announces 1,200MW Gas-Fired Thermal Power Deal to Bolster Ghana’s Energy Security

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a landmark initiative to transform Ghana's energy landscape, revealing plans to finalize agreements for 1,200 megawatts (MW) of gas-fired thermal power by the end of this year. This expansion, which is set to become the nation’s largest thermal power capacity, is a central component of the government's strategy to ensure long-term energy security and support industrial growth. Speaking during a town hall meeting in New York, the President emphasized that the development is critical for Ghana to adapt to the ongoing global energy transition and maintain economic competitiveness on the world stage. The project comes on the heels of significant structural reforms within the energy sector. President Mahama highlighted that his administration has successfully cleared substantial debts and reorganized the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). These efforts were specifically aimed at creating a more stable and financially viable sector, ensuring that power producers are paid promptly and reliably. This improved operational framework is expected to further boost investor confidence and facilitate the seamless integration of the new 1,200MW capacity into the national grid. Beyond the immediate energy goals, the President pointed to a broader recovery in the national economy, fueled in part by the revitalized oil and gas sector. He noted that the country has seen a significant drop in interest rates and a stabilizing exchange rate for the cedi, which collectively create a more favorable environment for both domestic and foreign investment. As the government moves to sign the final power agreements, the emphasis remains on leveraging these infrastructure gains to drive sustainable economic stability and position Ghana as a leader in regional energy production.

energy and infrastructure|

Chancellor John Healey Negotiates with US to Prevent Diesel Export Ban as UK Fuel Prices Hit Record Highs

Chancellor John Healey has initiated critical discussions with United States authorities in an effort to prevent a potential ban on diesel exports that could severely impact the United Kingdom’s energy security. This diplomatic push comes as UK diesel prices have surged to an unprecedented high of 199.33p per liter, placing immense pressure on both consumers and the broader economy. The UK government is moving to secure its supply chains as global energy markets remain volatile, with Healey warning that any restriction on American exports—reportedly under consideration by the Trump administration—would lead to further price hikes at the pump and exacerbate the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.\n\nThe urgency of these negotiations is underscored by the UK's significant dependence on American energy products. Currently, the United Kingdom relies on the United States for approximately one-third of its total diesel imports. This reliance has become more pronounced due to supply disruptions linked to the Russia-Ukraine war and escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have constrained traditional supply routes and reduced global refinery output. Chancellor Healey emphasized that maintaining the flow of fuel from the US is vital for stabilizing the domestic market, noting that the current price spikes are largely driven by these external geopolitical pressures.\n\nIn addition to international supply concerns, the UK faces domestic fiscal challenges that could further inflate fuel costs. A long-standing freeze on fuel duty is scheduled to expire at the end of this year, a move that would automatically trigger price increases unless the government intervenes. Healey’s strategy involves a dual approach: securing international supply through diplomacy while monitoring domestic tax policy. He has called for a renewed focus on diplomatic resolutions to conflicts in the Middle East, asserting that a more stable geopolitical climate is essential to alleviating the persistent upward pressure on global fuel prices.

Puma Energy partners 5 distributors to boost LPG access
energy and infrastructure|

Puma Energy Ghana Bolsters LPG Access Through Local Partnerships and Multi-Million Dollar Investment

Puma Energy Ghana has launched a significant strategic expansion into the country’s Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sector, signing partnership agreements with five local distributors to accelerate the adoption of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM). This initiative aligns with the government's ambitious goal of achieving 50% LPG penetration across Ghana by 2030. By decentralizing the retail network, the collaboration aims to provide cleaner cooking solutions and improve public health outcomes by making LPG more accessible to households that currently rely on traditional solid fuels. As part of a multi-million-dollar investment strategy, Puma Energy plans to significantly expand its infrastructure, with a target of introducing over 40,000 new branded cylinders into the market by September 2026. The CRM framework is central to this rollout, allowing consumers to exchange empty cylinders for filled ones at no additional cost for the container, thereby removing the high financial entry barrier of cylinder ownership. The company expects this expansion to eventually serve approximately 30,000 local communities, leveraging the expertise of fully Ghanaian-owned enterprises to enhance energy security and stimulate local economic growth. The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has expressed strong support for these developments, emphasizing the importance of private sector investment in achieving national energy targets. During a recent meeting with a Puma Energy delegation, NPA Chief Executive Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo reaffirmed the regulator's commitment to providing an efficient, transparent, and fair regulatory environment. Mr. Tameklo highlighted the necessity of building trust between the industry and the regulator to facilitate a stable market that encourages the kind of long-term capital commitments required for the CRM's success. This partnership represents a critical step in Ghana's transition toward sustainable energy and modernized infrastructure. By focusing on safety and reliability, the collaboration between Puma Energy and local distributors aims to professionalize the LPG value chain while protecting consumers. As the CRM continues to gain momentum, the combined efforts of the private sector and the NPA are expected to transform the domestic energy landscape, reducing the environmental impact of charcoal and wood fuel while creating new employment opportunities within the local distribution network.

Aliko Dangote Vows to Overcome Legal Hurdle Halting $16 Billion Kenya Refinery Project
energy and infrastructure|

Aliko Dangote Vows to Overcome Legal Hurdle Halting $16 Billion Kenya Refinery Project

Nigerian tycoon Aliko Dangote has expressed firm resolve to contest a court order that has temporarily suspended the development of his $16 billion oil refinery project on the Kenyan coast. Despite the legal setback, Dangote remains committed to the massive infrastructure project, which is designed to produce 700,000 barrels of oil per day. The billionaire businessman, regarded as Africa’s richest person, characterized these legal challenges as common obstacles that investors frequently encounter when navigating the complex business landscape across the continent. The proposed refinery is a cornerstone of Dangote’s broader vision for energy independence in Africa. With an estimated production timeline of 30 months from the start of operations, the facility aims to drastically reduce the continent's reliance on imported refined petroleum products. However, the project has met resistance in the form of litigation centered on land rights and environmental impacts. Critics and local stakeholders have raised concerns about the ecological footprint of such a large-scale industrial operation on the Kenyan coastline, leading to the current judicial intervention. Dangote’s ambition extends beyond the Kenyan borders; he envisions a future where Africa is mostly self-sufficient in fuel by 2030. He has emphasized the critical need for African nations to stop the historical trend of exporting raw materials only to import expensive finished products from abroad. By processing crude oil locally, Dangote argues that the refinery will trigger a significant wave of industrial growth and economic empowerment throughout the East African region and the wider continent. Declaring ‘We are ready for them!’ in response to the court order, Dangote’s stance signals a determined effort to keep the multi-billion-dollar investment on track. The outcome of this legal battle will be closely watched by international investors as a litmus test for large-scale infrastructure development and the balance between industrialization and community rights in East Africa. For now, the project remains at a crossroads between the continent's urgent need for energy security and the increasing scrutiny of environmental regulations.

Roads Minister Agbodza Summons Consultants and Directs Contractors to Expedite Major Highway Projects
energy and infrastructure|

Roads Minister Agbodza Summons Consultants and Directs Contractors to Expedite Major Highway Projects

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has issued a series of stern directives to contractors and supervising consultants across several key infrastructure projects, signaling the Mahama administration's zero-tolerance policy for delays. During a comprehensive inspection tour of major road corridors on September 29, 2025, the Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work and the absence of critical oversight personnel, warning that the government is prepared to take drastic measures to ensure project timelines are met. These site visits form part of a broader effort to monitor the progress of vital transport links connecting the capital to the northern and Ashanti regions. A significant confrontation occurred at the site of the Accra-Kumasi Bypass, where Minister Agbodza summoned the supervising consulting firm, ADK, following their absence during his visit. Highlighting the indispensable role of consultants in maintaining construction standards, the Minister criticized the lack of progress reports and the firm's lack of on-site presence. He warned that if a satisfactory explanation is not provided, he would recommend the firm’s removal and task the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) with taking over supervision. Despite these concerns, Agbodza commended the laborers on-site for their continued efforts, reiterating the project's importance to President John Mahama’s development agenda. In Kumasi, the Minister turned his attention to the Kumasi Outer Ring Road and the Suame Interchange projects. He urged Arab Contractors Ghana Limited to hasten their pace on the ring road, specifically calling for a transition from earthworks to concrete works. Minister Agbodza emphasized the unprecedented scale of the project and insisted that no time extensions would be granted unless absolutely justified by the contractor. Furthermore, he directed road agencies to overhaul their design review processes for the Suame Interchange, suggesting that technical sessions be held in single sittings or at temporary site facilities to eliminate the lengthy feedback processes that currently hamper progress. These directives reflect a broader push by the Ministry of Roads and Highways to modernize project management through real-time adaptability and accountability. By demanding on-the-spot design reviews and threatening the replacement of non-performing consultants, Agbodza aims to bridge the gap between planning and execution. The Minister’s tour serves as a clear message to all stakeholders in the infrastructure sector: the current administration views the completion of these major corridors as a national priority that will not be compromised by administrative bottlenecks or professional negligence.

Energy Commission Certifies 884 New Electricians Amid Calls for Modernization and Strict Regulatory Compliance
energy and infrastructure|

Energy Commission Certifies 884 New Electricians Amid Calls for Modernization and Strict Regulatory Compliance

The Energy Commission has officially certified 884 electrical wiring professionals following the completion of the May/June 2026 certification examination. Out of the 1,036 candidates who participated, approximately 85% successfully passed the rigorous testing process, bringing the total number of certified professionals under the national programme to 19,442. This expansion of the certified workforce is a critical component of Ghana's strategy to enhance electrical safety standards and ensure that only qualified personnel are responsible for the country's power installations. Speaking at the 25th Electrical Wiring Awards Ceremony in Kumasi, officials emphasized that professional certification must be matched by high ethical standards. Mr. Isaac Kusi Appiah, the Ashanti Regional Manager of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), issued a stern warning to certified electricians against the illegal practice of "renting" their professional certificates to unqualified individuals. He noted that such actions significantly undermine the integrity of the profession and warned that any certified professional found facilitating this practice would face severe consequences, emphasizing that they do so at their own risk. In addition to monitoring professional conduct, the GSA is intensifying its efforts to purge the market of substandard electrical components. Mr. Appiah announced that beginning in October 2026, the GSA will launch a new initiative to test and certify cable dealers specifically within the Ashanti Region. This initiative is designed to make the certification process more accessible for local dealers while ensuring that all cables on the market meet approved safety standards. Electricians have been urged to work exclusively with these approved materials to reinforce the commitment to safety and compliance across the region. Looking toward the future, the Energy Commission highlighted the urgent need for electricians to upgrade their skills to keep pace with the evolving energy landscape. With the rapid adoption of solar power, battery storage systems, and electric vehicles (EVs), the industry is undergoing a significant transformation. The Commission is currently developing new certification syllabi and draft regulations for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. These measures are intended to equip Ghanaian electricians with the specialized knowledge required to safely integrate renewable energy systems and modern mobility solutions into the national grid.