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.

Tema Oil Refinery and UMaT partner on petroleum industry studies
energy and infrastructure|

Tema Oil Refinery and UMaT partner on petroleum industry studies

The Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), Edmond Kombat, has met with a high-level delegation from the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) to discuss a new strategic partnership. The engagement, held with representatives from UMaT’s School of Petroleum Studies, is designed to enhance the existing collaboration between the national refinery and the academic institution. This initiative aims to align academic curricula with the evolving technical demands of the petroleum industry, ensuring that Ghana’s future energy professionals are equipped with practical, industry-relevant skills. The discussions focused on creating a framework for bridging the gap between theoretical petroleum studies and industrial practice. Key areas of the proposed collaboration include joint research projects and faculty exchange programmes, which would allow academics to gain industrial experience while providing the refinery with access to cutting-edge research. The UMaT delegation included Dean Richard Amorin, Associate Professor Harrison Osei, Associate Professor Ohenewaa K. Dankwa, and Dr. Ato Fanyin-Martin, representing the university’s commitment to academic-industrial synergy. The move is expected to foster a more integrated approach to solving technical and operational challenges within the refinery through scientific inquiry. By formalising this relationship, TOR and UMaT are positioning themselves to lead indigenous innovation in the energy sector. This partnership marks a significant step toward domestic capacity building, aiming to reduce the reliance on external expertise and enhance the sustainability of Ghana’s petroleum infrastructure through continuous learning and professional development.

energy and infrastructure|

NEDCo replaces faulty 200 kVA transformer in Saasigli

The Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has successfully installed and commissioned a new 200 kVA transformer in Saasigli, a community within the Yendi Municipality. This crucial infrastructure replacement marks the end of a prolonged power outage that had affected residents and businesses in the area for several weeks. The new equipment replaces a faulty unit that had disrupted the local grid, restoring stable electricity to Saasigli and its immediate environs. The power disruption, which began in mid-September, had caused significant inconvenience to the community. NEDCo’s Communications Manager, Mr. Maxwell Kotoka, highlighted the technical challenges faced during the restoration process, particularly the impact of heavy rainfall on the installation site. He commended the local residents for their proactive efforts in making the site accessible for the engineering teams, which allowed for the successful installation of the 200 kVA unit. Kotoka reaffirmed the utility provider's dedication to maintaining and improving the reliability of the power supply across its operational areas. Local leadership also acknowledged the resolution of the power crisis. The Member of Parliament for the area, Mr. Abdul-Fatawu Alhassan, confirmed that the intervention has effectively ended the disruptions that plagued the municipality. Looking ahead, the MP announced that the infrastructure improvement in Saasigli is part of a broader electrification effort. He indicated that plans are currently underway to extend electricity services to several more nearby communities before the end of October, aiming to further bridge the energy gap in the Yendi Municipality.

energy and infrastructure|

Paul Baffoe-Bonnie designates Achimota Court for petroleum diversion cases

Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has designated the Achimota Court to serve as the specialized judicial body for handling cases related to the diversion of petroleum products. The initiative seeks to streamline legal proceedings against individuals and companies involved in the illegal siphoning and misdirection of fuel, a practice that continues to pose a significant threat to the country's economic stability and energy security. Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), disclosed this development during a testimony before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee. According to Tamakloe, the designation of a specific court is a strategic move to enhance the efficiency of prosecutions. By concentrating these specialized cases in one venue, the NPA and the judiciary aim to ensure that offenders are held accountable under the full extent of the National Petroleum Authority Act, which mandates various penalties, including heavy fines and prison terms. This judicial assignment is expected to bolster regulatory enforcement within the downstream petroleum sector by providing a more focused legal environment. The NPA has long sought more robust mechanisms to combat the diversion of petroleum products, which often involves the fraudulent redirection of subsidised fuel or exports back into the local market. With the Achimota Court now focused on these infractions, authorities anticipate a more rapid resolution of cases and a significant reduction in revenue leakages across the industry.

John Dramani Mahama directs agencies to expedite Mumford Fishing Harbour
energy and infrastructure|

John Dramani Mahama directs agencies to expedite Mumford Fishing Harbour

President John Dramani Mahama has instructed relevant government agencies to immediately assess and accelerate the completion of the stalled Mumford Fishing Harbour project. The presidential directive comes in response to a formal petition from the Mumford community, who have long called for the completion of the facility to boost the local economy and improve maritime safety. The move is seen as a direct intervention to address the infrastructure deficit that has hindered the coastal town's primary industry. The office of Captain Blessed Godsbrain Smart issued a statement on October 15, 2026, commending the President for his swift action. The statement highlighted the significance of the project for local livelihoods, noting that the community has been hopeful for such an intervention to revitalize their fishing activities. The intervention by the President is expected to provide the necessary administrative push to overcome the delays that have characterized the project for years. Completing the harbour is expected to yield significant socio-economic benefits, particularly for women involved in the fishing value chain. By providing a safer and more modern landing site, the project aims to reduce the risks faced by fishers during high seas and improve the hygiene and efficiency of fish processing. For the women who dominate the smoking and marketing sectors of the industry, the new infrastructure promises better economic security and reduced post-harvest losses. As government agencies begin their technical and financial assessments, the directive signals a renewed focus on maritime infrastructure as a cornerstone of rural development. The successful completion of the Mumford Fishing Harbour would serve as a vital link in the country’s blue economy, ensuring that coastal communities can maximize the potential of their natural resources in a safe and sustainable manner.

energy and infrastructure|

Paul Baffoe-Bonnie designates Achimota Court for petroleum diversion cases

Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has officially designated the Achimota Court as a specialized venue to adjudicate cases involving the illegal diversion of petroleum products. This strategic move aims to streamline the judicial process for energy-related offenses and ensure that individuals or entities undermining the petroleum supply chain face swift legal consequences. The decision follows ongoing efforts to curb the financial losses and regulatory breaches that plague the downstream petroleum sector. The announcement was made by Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), during his testimony before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC). According to Tamakloe, the NPA sought the establishment of this specialized court to significantly enhance its enforcement capabilities. By centralizing these specific cases at the Achimota Court, the Authority expects to reduce delays in the prosecution of offenders who violate the National Petroleum Authority Act. Under the existing legal framework, those convicted of diverting petroleum products face significant penalties, including heavy fines and custodial sentences. The NPA has previously noted challenges regarding the pace of litigation in general courts, where energy-sector crimes compete with a broad range of other criminal and civil matters. The designation of a specific court is expected to provide the judiciary with the focus needed to handle the technical complexities often associated with petroleum fraud and illegal distribution networks. This judicial initiative marks a significant step in strengthening the regulatory environment of Ghana's energy sector. By ensuring a dedicated venue for these cases, the government and the NPA aim to send a clear deterrent message to operators involved in illicit activities. Moving forward, this specialization is anticipated to improve the recovery of lost tax revenues and protect the integrity of petroleum product distribution across the country.

Tanzania finalizes $42bn gas development deal with Shell and Equinor
energy and infrastructure|

Tanzania finalizes $42bn gas development deal with Shell and Equinor

The Tanzanian government is moving to finalize a $42 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) agreement with global energy giants Equinor and Shell. This landmark project is designed to tap into the country’s vast natural gas reserves, which are currently estimated at 47.13 trillion cubic feet. The deal marks a significant step in the nation's efforts to harness its natural resources for large-scale energy production and long-term economic transformation. The development is expected to serve as a major catalyst for industrial growth within the country. By successfully exploiting these extensive offshore reserves, Tanzania is set to solidify its position as a primary player in the continental energy market. Currently, the nation ranks among the top six holders of natural gas reserves in Africa, trailing only Nigeria, Algeria, Senegal, Mozambique, and Egypt. The strategic partnership with Shell and Equinor is viewed as critical to providing the technical expertise and capital required for a project of this magnitude. Beyond the immediate financial investment, the LNG project is anticipated to have far-reaching implications for Tanzania's energy security and regional influence. As the agreement nears its final conclusion, officials believe it will provide the necessary infrastructure to support domestic industrialization while also positioning the country to meet rising international demand. This focus on natural gas aligns with broader continental trends where African nations are increasingly looking to leverage their gas assets to bridge energy gaps and stimulate sustainable economic development.

John Mahama orders assessment of stalled Mumford Fishing harbour
energy and infrastructure|

John Mahama orders assessment of stalled Mumford Fishing harbour

President John Dramani Mahama has directed relevant government agencies to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the stalled Mumford Fishing Harbour project. The presidential directive aims to evaluate the current state of the facility and expedite its completion following a period of prolonged neglect. This intervention comes as a direct response to a formal petition submitted by the local community, which sought urgent executive assistance to revitalize the vital maritime infrastructure. The Office of Captain Blessed Godsbrain Smart issued a statement on October 15, 2026, commending the President for his swift response to the community's grievances. The statement highlighted that the President's action has renewed hope among residents who depend on the harbour for their daily bread. The completion of the project is seen as a critical step toward improving the safety of fishers and enhancing the general productivity of the landing site, which has faced significant operational challenges during the hiatus. Beyond immediate safety improvements, the finished harbour is expected to transform the economic landscape for women in the fishing industry. These women, who play a central role in fish processing and marketing, are projected to gain greater economic security from the modernized facilities. By prioritizing the completion of the Mumford harbour, the government aims to strengthen coastal economies and demonstrate its commitment to addressing stalled infrastructure projects that directly impact local livelihoods.

A large group of delegates pose for a photograph at the Walk21 Regional Dialogues Africa conference held at the University of Cape Coast. The participants are gathered in front of a large event banner that features the University of Cape Coast logo and photos of key speakers including the Vice-Chancellor and the Ghanaian Minister for Transport.
energy and infrastructure|

Walk21 urges African nations to prioritise walking in urban planning

Global charity Walk21 has called on African governments and transport practitioners to integrate walking and active mobility into the core of urban transport planning. Speaking at the Walk21 Regional Dialogue held in Cape Coast, the organisation’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Bronwyn Thornton, emphasised that walking is a fundamental mode of transport that remains essential for health, equity, and inclusivity. The dialogue brought together government officials and urban planning experts from across the continent to discuss strategies for making African cities more pedestrian-friendly. Ms. Thornton highlighted that despite walking being the primary mode of transport for millions of Africans, it often receives the least attention and funding in infrastructure development. She argued that prioritising pedestrians is not merely a matter of convenience but a critical component of building sustainable and resilient cities. According to Walk21, integrating walking into national and local transport frameworks is necessary to address the needs of all citizens, particularly those in lower-income brackets who rely almost exclusively on active mobility to access jobs, education, and healthcare. The Central Regional Minister, Mr. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for cleaner and safer walkways within Ghana's urban centres. He noted that the current state of pedestrian infrastructure often discourages walking and poses significant safety risks to the public. During the sessions, practitioners and government representatives examined the development of local action plans aimed at creating safer, more accessible walking environments. These plans focus on addressing specific infrastructure gaps, such as lack of lighting, poor pavement quality, and the absence of dedicated pedestrian crossings in high-traffic areas. The regional dialogue concluded with a consensus on the need for collaborative efforts to shift the focus of urban planning away from car-centric models toward people-centred designs. By adopting active mobility strategies, African nations can reduce carbon emissions and improve public health outcomes. The participants committed to advocating for better funding and policy support for walking infrastructure, viewing it as a vital step toward achieving broader sustainable development goals across the continent.

GPRTU gives government one-week ultimatum to clear traders from bus stops
energy and infrastructure|

GPRTU gives government one-week ultimatum to clear traders from bus stops

Transport unions in Ghana, led by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), have issued a one-week ultimatum to the government to remove traders from designated bus stops and pedestrian walkways. This demand is addressed to the Ministries of Trade, Industry, Interior, and Local Government. The unions insist that clearing these areas is essential before the official rollout of the TraffiTech-GH enforcement system, which is scheduled to begin on November 1, 2026. Speaking at a press conference, GPRTU Deputy Public Relations Officer Samuel Amoah explained that many major bus stops and pedestrian pathways have been illegally converted into trading zones. This encroachment significantly disrupts vehicle operations and passenger safety, as drivers are often forced to pick up or drop off passengers in unauthorized locations because the correct stops are blocked. These actions are in direct violation of existing road traffic regulations and create hazardous conditions for both commuters and motorists. The unions expressed specific concern regarding the upcoming implementation of TraffiTech-GH, an automated traffic enforcement system designed to capture road traffic offences via cameras. Under the new regime, drivers fear they will be unfairly penalized for stopping at undesignated areas when the actual bus stops are occupied by traders. The GPRTU emphasized that without clear, accessible terminals and stops, drivers are placed in an impossible position where they must choose between serving passengers and avoiding automated fines. Beyond the immediate removal of traders, the transport unions are also calling for broader improvements to traffic infrastructure to support the new enforcement system. The one-week deadline serves as a formal call to the relevant ministries to enforce local bylaws and restore order to the country's roads. Failure to act, the unions suggest, could lead to further friction between transport operators and authorities as the November 1 implementation date approaches.

energy and infrastructure|

NEDCo replaces faulty 200 kVA transformer in Saasigli

The Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has successfully installed a new 200 kVA transformer in Saasigli, located within the Yendi Municipality. This critical intervention restores stable electricity supply to the community and its surrounding areas, following a period of persistent power disruptions. The previous transformer had been faulty since mid-September, causing significant inconvenience to local residents and businesses. NEDCo’s Communications Manager, Mr. Maxwell Kotoka, emphasized the company's commitment to maintaining reliable infrastructure and improving service delivery across its operational zones. He particularly highlighted the cooperation of the Saasigli community, whose residents assisted in making the installation site accessible. This collaboration was vital as recent heavy rainfall had made the terrain difficult for the company’s technical teams to navigate with heavy equipment. Mr. Abdul-Fatawu Alhassan, the Member of Parliament for the area, noted that the new installation has effectively ended a week of total power outages in the vicinity. He expressed relief at the restoration of service, acknowledging the economic and social impact the lack of electricity had on the municipality. The MP commended the technical team for their responsiveness in resolving the fault despite the challenging weather conditions. Looking ahead, the restoration of the Saasigli transformer is part of a broader push to enhance energy access in the region. Mr. Alhassan announced that plans are already in motion to extend electricity to several more communities by the end of October. NEDCo continues to monitor the grid to ensure the newly installed unit performs reliably under the local load requirements.

A green and yellow Aayalolo bus is parked at a paved terminal in Accra, with several other buses from the same fleet visible in the background. The main bus in the foreground is marked with the number 169 and shows a Ghanaian license plate under a cloudy sky.
energy and infrastructure|

GAPTE Aayalolo contra-flow service cuts Adenta-Accra travel times

The Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) reports that its Aayalolo contra-flow system has drastically reduced commuting times across major corridors in the capital. Launched on September 29, 2026, the service has transformed the morning and evening rush hours for thousands of residents. Specifically, the journey from Adenta to Accra Central, which previously took upwards of 150 minutes (two and a half hours), now averages between 23 and 28 minutes during peak periods. According to GAPTE Managing Director Dawuda Awudu, the system currently serves over 8,000 passengers daily. The initiative operates across three primary corridors: Adenta, Amasaman (including Pokuase), and Kasoa. By utilizing dedicated lanes against the standard flow of traffic during peak hours, the service bypasses chronic congestion, providing a reliable alternative for workers, traders, and students. Evening travel times have seen similar improvements, with return trips typically lasting between 28 and 32 minutes. To keep up with the rising demand for the service, GAPTE is intensifying efforts to increase bus availability. Mr. Awudu noted that the organization is currently repairing older buses in its fleet while simultaneously working to acquire new vehicles to bolster the service. He emphasized that the primary focus of the contra-flow program is to enhance public mobility and provide social relief rather than maximizing revenue. This approach aims to encourage more commuters to opt for public transport, further easing the overall traffic burden on Accra's road network. The success of the initiative has been bolstered by high levels of public compliance and the implementation of robust safety measures to manage the unconventional traffic flow. While discussions regarding the expansion of the system to additional routes are ongoing, the immediate priority remains stabilizing and improving the current corridors. As the service continues to demonstrate significant time savings, GAPTE remains committed to refining its operations to ensure long-term sustainability and improved urban transport efficiency.

Dignitaries and delegates of the Ghana Water Ladies Association who attended the event
energy and infrastructure|

Thomas Abobi urges Ghana Water Ladies Association to prioritize mentorship

Dr. Thomas Abobi, the Chief Manager of Finance at Ghana Water Limited, has called on the Ghana Water Ladies Association to transition from its current focus as a welfare organization into a professional network centered on mentorship and leadership. Addressing the association’s national delegates’ conference, Dr. Abobi emphasized that shifting the group’s focus is essential for members to adapt to the rapidly changing dynamics of the global water sector. During his address, Dr. Abobi highlighted the importance of professional development and urged the women to actively mentor younger colleagues. He argued that the association should serve as a force for transformation within Ghana Water Limited, rather than merely addressing the social welfare needs of its members. By fostering leadership skills, he noted, the group could better support the utility provider in overcoming contemporary industry challenges. The conference also addressed the declining representation of women within the company. Perpetual Asomani, a speaker at the event, described the downward trend in female staffing as concerning and urged members to invest in their own professional growth to remain relevant. She pointed out that self-improvement and the acquisition of new competencies are vital for women to maintain their influence and reach higher levels of management within the organization. In her remarks, the National President of the Ghana Water Ladies Association, Hannan A.A. Mumin, called for a renewed commitment to empowerment and mutual support. She stressed the need for the association to create tangible opportunities for future leaders, ensuring that women play a central role in the company’s ongoing modernization. The conference concluded with a consensus on the need to align the group’s activities with the strategic professional goals of the utility.