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.

GAPTE Reports Drastic Reduction in Adenta-Accra Travel Time Following Ayalolo Contra-Flow Implementation
energy and infrastructure|

GAPTE Reports Drastic Reduction in Adenta-Accra Travel Time Following Ayalolo Contra-Flow Implementation

The Adenta-Accra corridor, historically known for its debilitating traffic congestion, has experienced a significant improvement in commuting efficiency following the introduction of a new contra-flow arrangement for Ayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services. The Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) reported that on the first morning of the initiative, travel times were reduced from a staggering 2.5 hours to just 23 minutes during peak hours. This dramatic shift highlights the potential effectiveness of dedicated transit lanes in addressing the city’s chronic transportation challenges. The intervention successfully moved approximately 8,000 passengers on its first day of full implementation, demonstrating the high capacity of the BRT system when freed from general traffic bottlenecks. The contra-flow arrangement, which allows buses to operate against the traditional flow of traffic in specific lanes, is active during the morning peak hours. The operation is closely monitored and managed by the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service to ensure the safety of both bus passengers and other road users. This collaborative effort ensures that the dedicated lane remains clear for high-capacity vehicles, facilitating a smoother flow for the thousands who rely on public transport. GAPTE has emphasized that the success of this initiative relies on a paradigm shift from focusing on the movement of vehicles to prioritizing the movement of people. By providing a faster, more reliable alternative to private vehicle use, officials hope to encourage more commuters to utilize public transit, thereby easing overall road congestion. The executive is calling for continued public cooperation and adherence to the new traffic management strategies to maintain these gains and improve the daily lives of thousands of commuters on the Adenta-Accra route. This strategy is viewed as a critical step in modernizing urban transport within the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area.

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

Ghana's Energy Sector Evolution: From Hydroelectric Roots to Industrial Powerhouse Aspirations

Ghana's trajectory toward becoming an industrial powerhouse under the administration of President John Mahama is intrinsically tied to the stability and evolution of its energy sector. As the lifeblood of the modern economy, the power sector is undergoing a critical transition from its historical reliance on raw material exports to a focus on value-added industrialization. This shift demands a robust understanding of the nation's energy generation, transmission, and distribution systems, which have evolved significantly since the early days of post-independence development. The current landscape is characterized by a strategic mix of traditional and emerging power sources designed to meet the growing demands of both domestic and commercial consumers. The history of Ghana's power journey is anchored by the Akosombo Dam, commissioned in 1965. While the dam initially provided a source of inexpensive electricity, its inherent vulnerability to droughts and fluctuating rainfall patterns eventually exposed the risks of over-reliance on hydroelectricity. To mitigate these risks and stabilize the national grid, the country has increasingly turned toward thermal power plants. Although thermal generation offers greater reliability regardless of weather conditions, it introduces significant financial challenges due to the high cost of purchasing fossil fuels. Concurrently, an emerging renewable energy sector—focused on solar and wind power—aims to diversify the energy mix and promote environmental sustainability in line with global trends. Moving power from generation sites to end-users involves a complex network managed by several key entities. The Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) is responsible for high-voltage transmission, serving as the bridge between power producers and distributors. At the local level, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) manage the final distribution to homes and businesses. However, this phase of the energy cycle faces persistent hurdles, primarily in the form of technical and commercial losses. Technical losses occur as energy is dissipated as heat through aging infrastructure, while commercial losses—resulting from unpaid bills or power theft—continue to drain the sector's revenue and hamper further investment. For Ghana to achieve its industrial ambitions, addressing these systemic challenges is paramount. Enhancing energy literacy among citizens, investors, and business owners is a critical step toward building a more transparent and efficient sector. By reducing distribution losses and successfully integrating renewable technologies, Ghana can create a more resilient energy framework. This evolution is not merely a technical necessity but a prerequisite for sustainable economic growth, ensuring that the electricity powering the nation's industry remains consistent, affordable, and accessible to all segments of society.

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

Roads Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza Proposes Extension of Defect Liability Period to Ensure Infrastructure Durability

The Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has signaled a significant policy shift in Ghana's construction sector by advocating for an extension of the mandatory one-year defect liability period for road contracts. Speaking during a high-profile site inspection of the Accra-Kumasi (N6) highway on September 29, 2025, the Minister emphasized that the existing timeframe is inadequate for safeguarding the nation's substantial investments in road infrastructure. Agbodza argued that extending this period would compel contractors and consultants to prioritize quality and durability, ensuring that the taxpayer receives better value for every cedi spent on public works. During his assessment of the N6 highway, Minister Agbodza highlighted that many road defects often manifest shortly after the current twelve-month warranty expires, leaving the government to shoulder the costs of premature repairs. To address this, he has initiated discussions with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Works and Housing to reform standard contract terms. The proposed changes aim to create a more robust accountability framework where contractors remain legally and financially responsible for the integrity of their projects for a longer duration. Agbodza expressed firm confidence in the technical expertise of Ghanaian engineers but stressed that professional capability must be matched by a culture of responsibility and long-term performance. The move comes as part of the broader infrastructure agenda under President John Mahama’s administration, which seeks to modernize the country’s transport network through sustainable engineering practices. By lengthening the defect liability period, the Ministry hopes to discourage sub-standard workmanship and encourage the use of superior materials and techniques from the outset. Industry experts suggest that such a policy change could lead to a significant reduction in maintenance backlogs and provide a more reliable road network for the traveling public. As the Ministry moves toward formalizing these reforms, the construction industry is expected to adjust its operational standards to meet the heightened expectations for national development.

energy and infrastructure|

UK Negotiates Strategic Diesel Reserve Release Amid Record Prices and US Export Ban Threats

The United Kingdom has entered high-level discussions with European Union partners regarding the potential release of strategic fuel reserves as diesel prices reach record highs across the country. Led by Energy Minister Martin McCluskey, the negotiations aim to stabilize a volatile energy market where diesel is currently trading at nearly 200p per litre. These emergency talks follow growing concerns over global supply chain stability, specifically triggered by threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to implement an export ban on American diesel to lower domestic costs in the United States. The potential U.S. export ban poses a significant risk to global energy security, as the United States typically exports between 1.2 million and 1.5 million barrels of diesel daily. Industry experts warn that removing such a substantial volume from the international market would inevitably drive global prices higher. These pressures are further exacerbated by wider geopolitical instability, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing sanctions on Russian energy products. The UK is particularly sensitive to these shifts due to its heavy reliance on diesel imports, despite recent data showing a slight year-on-year decline in the number of diesel vehicles on British roads. Despite the mounting price pressure, the British government has emphasized that there is no immediate threat of a physical diesel shortage. Minister McCluskey and his European counterparts are currently focusing on a coordinated response to manage inflationary costs rather than addressing a lack of fuel availability. In addition to the EU talks, the UK is preparing for a meeting with the International Energy Agency (IEA) to evaluate the necessity of a synchronized global release of reserves. While the government maintains that supply remains secure, the primary objective is to protect consumers and the broader economy from the impact of record-breaking fuel costs at the pump.

Aliko Dangote and President William Ruto Groundbreak $16 Billion East Africa Petroleum Refinery in Lamu
energy and infrastructure|

Aliko Dangote and President William Ruto Groundbreak $16 Billion East Africa Petroleum Refinery in Lamu

Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote and Kenyan President William Ruto have officially broken ground on the $16 billion Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery in Lamu, Kenya. Positioned to be the largest industrial venture in the region, the refinery is designed to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day upon its projected completion in 2030. The project represents a significant step toward African energy independence, with Dangote emphasizing the necessity for the continent to add value to its own resources rather than relying on foreign refined oil. Beyond its refining capabilities, the facility is expected to serve as a major economic catalyst, potentially creating up to 60,000 jobs and featuring an integrated 1,000-megawatt power plant to support regional industrialization. Although Kenya is not a major oil producer, officials and project backers maintain that the refinery is strategically located to source crude from various global markets. The initial phase will rely on imported crude, with plans to incorporate more regional production as East African oil output expands in the coming years. Despite the economic promise, the project faces substantial local and environmental opposition. Local residents have staged protests demanding better land compensation, and a group of citizens has filed a lawsuit to halt construction pending more rigorous environmental assessments. While Dangote has dismissed these concerns, asserting that the project will proceed as planned, the legal and social friction highlights the ongoing tension between large-scale industrial development and community rights in the Lamu region. This $16 billion investment is a critical component of Dangote’s broader $50 billion investment strategy across the African continent. As construction moves forward, the project will be closely watched as a test case for whether massive private industrial investments can successfully navigate complex environmental regulations and local land disputes in East Africa. If successful, the refinery could fundamentally alter the energy landscape of the continent, reducing the high costs associated with importing refined fuel.

Star Oil Rejoins COMAC, Demands Abolition of Permanent Board Seats in Governance Reform Push
energy and infrastructure|

Star Oil Rejoins COMAC, Demands Abolition of Permanent Board Seats in Governance Reform Push

Star Oil Ghana Limited has officially announced its return to the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), ending a membership suspension that began in January 2026. In a formal communication dated October 1, 2026, the company’s CEO, Philip Tieku, expressed a commitment to re-engaging with the industry body while simultaneously issuing a strong call for comprehensive governance reforms. The decision to rejoin follows extensive consultations with industry stakeholders and appeals from other oil marketing companies (OMCs) who emphasized the importance of Star Oil's participation in the sector's collective growth. Central to Star Oil’s return is a direct challenge to the Chamber’s traditional leadership structure, specifically the permanent board seats reserved for three founding members. Mr. Tieku argued that this arrangement is outdated and no longer reflects the evolving dynamics of Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector. By concentrating power among a few historical players, the current system is said to hinder broader participation and limit the responsiveness of the Chamber to the needs of its diverse membership. Star Oil maintains that the industry's progress requires a leadership model that prioritizes merit and contemporary relevance over historical status. To address these concerns, Star Oil is advocating for a more transparent and democratic selection process for board representation. The company believes that moving away from permanent appointments toward an elective or merit-based system will significantly enhance accountability and effectiveness within COMAC. According to the CEO, a reformed governance structure would ensure that the interests of all oil marketing companies are equitably represented, fostering a more collaborative environment where decision-making is shared among the Chamber’s active participants. As Star Oil reintegrates into the Chamber, the focus shifts toward how COMAC leadership will respond to these calls for modernization. The company has expressed its intention to work closely with fellow members to implement these changes, aiming to make the Chamber a more representative and robust voice for the industry. This push for reform highlights a growing demand for transparency within Ghana’s business associations, suggesting that historical hierarchies may soon give way to more inclusive governance frameworks in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

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.