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.

John Mahama announces water projects for Tamale, Yendi and Damongo
energy and infrastructure|

John Mahama announces water projects for Tamale, Yendi and Damongo

President John Mahama has unveiled a comprehensive plan to expand piped water networks in Tamale, Yendi, and Damongo, aimed at bolstering infrastructure and stimulating economic growth across the Northern Region. This European Union-funded initiative is designed to address immediate utility needs while creating a foundation for long-term industrialization. A critical component of the plan involves the installation of new heavy-duty pumps at the Dalong waterworks, which are scheduled to become operational next month to alleviate long-standing supply pressures in Tamale and surrounding areas. The announcement was made during a high-level engagement with traditional leaders from the Dagbon kingdom. President Mahama emphasized that his administration views robust infrastructure and regional peace as prerequisites for attracting private investment and fostering sustainable job creation. During the meeting, the President paid tribute to the late Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, acknowledging his significant contributions to regional stability, which remains an essential foundation for the successful implementation of these development projects. Beyond residential access, the water expansion project is specifically targeted at supporting agro-industrial growth in the northern corridor. By improving utility reliability, the government aims to create a more favorable environment for industrial processing and commercial agriculture. The Regent of Dagbon, Kampakuya Naa Yakubu II, welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the commitment of traditional authorities to collaborate with the central government to ensure the project's success and the continued development of the Dagbon kingdom. This infrastructure push aligns with the Mahama administration's broader strategy of decentralized development and regional equity. As the Dalong waterworks upgrades near completion, residents and businesses in the targeted districts can expect a more consistent water supply, reducing the utility challenges that have previously hindered large-scale investment. The partnership between the state, the EU, and traditional authorities signals a unified approach to addressing the infrastructure deficit in Northern Ghana.

energy and infrastructure|

IEAG urges Finance Minister to address Tema Port disruptions

The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has officially petitioned the Finance Minister to convene an emergency meeting to resolve escalating operational challenges at the Tema Port. The association cited persistent shipping-line delays and significant terminal disruptions that have hampered maritime trade activities. According to a press statement released on October 19, 2026, the IEAG insists that a high-level intervention is necessary to halt the mounting financial losses currently being absorbed by stakeholders across the industry. Executive Secretary of the IEAG, Samson Asaki Awingobit, highlighted the critical need for a forum involving all major parties to pinpoint the root causes of these inefficiencies. The association specifically identified bottlenecks in invoicing, payment processing, and the release of containers as primary areas requiring immediate reform. The IEAG maintains that the current status quo is unsustainable for businesses that rely on the port for the movement of goods, as these delays ripple through the supply chain and increase the overall cost of doing business in Ghana. Central to the association's demands is the principle that importers and exporters should not be held financially responsible for costs arising from service failures beyond their control. The IEAG is calling for a system of accountability that ensures port service providers and terminal operators meet specific operational standards. By seeking measurable outcomes from the proposed meeting with the Finance Ministry, the association hopes to establish better oversight and more efficient container handling processes to prevent arbitrary charges and unnecessary delays. The request for government intervention comes as stakeholders express increasing frustration with the pace of maritime operations at the nation's primary gateway. Enhancing port efficiency is viewed as vital for Ghana's trade competitiveness, and the IEAG believes that the Finance Ministry's involvement is crucial for implementing lasting solutions. As the association awaits a formal response from the Ministry, the focus remains on securing a commitment to structural improvements that will safeguard the interests of the trading community.

National Petroleum Authority partners UMaT on industry training
energy and infrastructure|

National Petroleum Authority partners UMaT on industry training

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has entered into a strategic partnership with the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) to bolster training and innovation within Ghana’s downstream petroleum industry. During a meeting with a delegation from the university, NPA Chief Executive Officer Godwin Kudzo Edudzi Tameklo underscored the necessity of integrating academic research with industrial practice to address evolving challenges in the energy sector. This collaboration is designed to create a pipeline of skilled professionals equipped to handle the technical complexities of petroleum distribution and regulation. As part of the initial agreement, the NPA will provide structured internship opportunities for UMaT students across its various technical departments. These placements aim to offer students hands-on experience and exposure to real-world regulatory environments. Furthermore, the partnership includes provisions for the professional development of UMaT faculty members, ensuring that academic instructors remain updated on the latest industry standards and technological advancements. Professor Richard Amorin, who led the UMaT delegation, expressed appreciation for the authority’s willingness to engage with the academic community. A key component of the discussions involved the potential establishment of a Centre of Excellence. This proposed facility would serve as a hub for specialized research and high-level training, further narrowing the divide between theoretical education and industry requirements. By fostering a closer relationship with UMaT, the NPA seeks to encourage home-grown solutions to technical problems while enhancing the overall efficiency and safety of the downstream sector. The partnership reflects a broader effort by the NPA to strengthen local capacity and ensure that the Ghanaian petroleum industry remains competitive and sustainable. Officials from both institutions expressed optimism that the collaboration would drive innovation and provide a robust framework for long-term skills development. As the downstream sector continues to expand, such academic-industry alliances are seen as vital for maintaining the integrity and growth of the national energy infrastructure.

Ghana Maritime Authority seeks integrated systems for 2024 single window
energy and infrastructure|

Ghana Maritime Authority seeks integrated systems for 2024 single window

The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) is intensifying its push for the integration of maritime information systems to streamline port operations and enhance trade facilitation. This initiative arrives as Ghana prepares for the mandatory implementation of the Maritime Single Window requirement, which is scheduled to take effect in 2024. By creating a cohesive framework, the authority aims to improve the country's competitiveness in international trade while ensuring a more efficient maritime environment. Speaking at a recent workshop dedicated to the Maritime Single Window, the Director-General of the GMA, Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, underscored the necessity of robust collaboration among key stakeholders. He specifically highlighted the importance of synergy between maritime, customs, and port authorities to ensure the success of the transition. According to Dr. Ali, refining existing systems is crucial not only for day-to-day port operations but also for bolstering maritime safety across Ghana’s territorial waters. The workshop served as a platform for regional stakeholders to share experiences and foster the development of integrated maritime information frameworks. Beyond improving administrative speed, the transition to a single window system is expected to reduce delays for vessels and cargo, ultimately lowering the cost of doing business at the nation’s ports. As the 2024 deadline approaches, the GMA remains focused on harmonizing digital infrastructure to meet international standards and support the broader national economy.

Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Ahmed Ibrahim
energy and infrastructure|

Ahmed Ibrahim sets 40% non-revenue water target for Ghana Water Limited

The Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Ahmed Ibrahim, has issued a stern warning to the management and staff of Ghana Water Limited (GWL), urging them to desist from acts of sabotage and politicization. Speaking during a visit to the utility provider on October 20, 2026, the Minister emphasized that the provision of safe and clean water is a critical national service that must not be compromised by negligence or partisan interests. He cautioned that staff members who allow political affiliations to interfere with their professional duties risk hindering the company's progress and harming the public interest. Ibrahim characterized the intentional undermining of the company's operations as a "curse," drawing parallels between current challenges and past failures in public sector performance. The Minister's remarks underscored a broader government push for efficiency within state-owned enterprises, particularly those responsible for essential services. He urged the workforce to be responsible in delivering safe and clean water to Ghanaians, noting that the utility has significant potential for improvement if internal sabotage is eliminated. A central focus of the Minister’s address was the high rate of non-revenue water—water that is produced but lost through leaks, theft, or metering inaccuracies—which currently stands at 47%. Ibrahim explicitly dismissed management's attempts to blame recent flooding for these high losses. Consequently, he set a strict performance target for the company to reduce its non-revenue water rate to 40% or lower by December 2026, challenging the leadership to move beyond excuses and adopt more robust technical and administrative solutions. Despite his firm warnings, the Minister expressed confidence in GWL’s potential to improve its service delivery and operational viability. He reminded the workforce that their efforts are foundational to the health and well-being of the population and that the government expects a return on its investments in the sector. The directive signals a heightened level of oversight for the water utility as it moves toward the end-of-2026 deadline for its efficiency targets.

Ghanaian researchers use AI to increase solar panel efficiency to 30%
energy and infrastructure|

Ghanaian researchers use AI to increase solar panel efficiency to 30%

Ghanaian researchers have launched an initiative using artificial intelligence (AI) to develop high-efficiency solar panels, aiming to increase energy conversion rates from the current 22% to between 25% and 30%. Supported by the French Embassy, the project focuses on identifying novel material combinations that could make solar technology more affordable and sustainable. The primary objective is to create power solutions specifically tailored for rural communities in Ghana that currently lack reliable access to the national grid. During a recent workshop, experts detailed how AI algorithms are being employed to bypass traditional, time-consuming trial-and-error methods in material science. By simulating thousands of material interactions, the researchers aim to discover stable, high-performance combinations that can be manufactured with lower toxicity than current commercial panels. Dr. Joseph Asare and Dr. Bruno Grandidier, leading figures in the project, emphasized that this technological leap is not just about efficiency but also about versatility, exploring flexible solar technologies that can be integrated into various surfaces and environments. While the prospects for local renewable energy development are significant, the research team noted that the project's long-term success depends on several critical factors. These include the acquisition of substantial computing infrastructure to handle complex AI processing and the establishment of local testing and manufacturing facilities for the newly discovered materials. If successful, the initiative could significantly lower the cost of solar energy, accelerating Ghana’s energy transition and providing a scalable model for other developing nations seeking energy independence through innovative technology.

John Jinapor says Ghana facilitates 40% of Burkina Faso petroleum transit
energy and infrastructure|

John Jinapor says Ghana facilitates 40% of Burkina Faso petroleum transit

Ghana now accounts for approximately 40% of the petroleum products transported to Burkina Faso, marking a substantial increase from the 15% recorded just two years ago. This development was announced by the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, following a high-level meeting with a delegation from Burkina Faso’s national petroleum company, Société Nationale Burkinabè d'Hydrocarbures (SONABHY). The meeting, which included SONABHY’s Managing Director, Dr. Patrice Forogo, focused on strengthening the existing partnership and enhancing logistics ties between the two West African nations. The delegation’s visit included a tour of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), where they met with the refinery’s Managing Director, Edmond Kombat. During the sessions, Mr. Kombat highlighted the rising consumption of petroleum products in Burkina Faso that are supplied via Ghana’s infrastructure. The discussions centered on improving supply arrangements and expanding cross-border trade to ensure a more efficient flow of energy resources. The Burkinabe officials toured the facility to gain deeper insights into TOR’s operations and capacity to support their domestic fuel needs. This growth in transit volume underscores Ghana’s evolving role as a strategic hub in the regional petroleum market. By deepening collaboration in petroleum logistics and other energy sectors, both countries aim to leverage their geographic proximity for mutual economic benefits. The partnership is expected to bolster energy security for Burkina Faso while enhancing the operational utilization of Ghana’s refinery and transport infrastructure, setting the stage for further integration within the sub-region.

energy and infrastructure|

IEAG demands emergency meeting with Finance Minister over Tema Port delays

The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has officially requested an emergency meeting with the Finance Minister to address what it describes as a growing crisis at the Tema Port. In a press statement issued on October 19, 2026, the association highlighted persistent shipping-line delays and terminal disruptions that have significantly hampered trade operations. According to the IEAG, these operational failures are not merely administrative inconveniences but are causing substantial financial losses for maritime stakeholders across the country. Executive Secretary of the IEAG, Samson Asaki Awingobit, emphasized that the situation requires immediate high-level intervention to identify root causes and implement sustainable solutions. The association is specifically calling for a meeting that includes all key parties within the maritime value chain to ensure a comprehensive approach to the problem. The IEAG has voiced concerns over inefficiencies in invoicing, slow payment processing, and the prolonged time required for container releases, all of which contribute to the bottleneck at Ghana’s primary trade gateway. The association maintains that private businesses should not be forced to bear the financial burden of costs resulting from service failures within the port's infrastructure. They are demanding a system of accountability where measurable outcomes follow the proposed emergency meeting. By establishing stricter operational standards and effective oversight, the IEAG argues that the government can restore port efficiency and protect the interests of the various stakeholders who rely on the maritime sector for their livelihoods.

ECG launches nationwide meter audit to curb electricity theft
energy and infrastructure|

ECG launches nationwide meter audit to curb electricity theft

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced the commencement of a comprehensive nationwide meter audit exercise designed to address the persistent challenge of electricity theft. This initiative aims to minimize significant commercial losses that have plagued the utility provider and ensure that all electricity consumed across the country is accurately measured and billed. The audit will cover a wide range of installations, including residential prepaid and postpaid meters, as well as high-consumption Special Load Tariff (SLT) installations. According to the company, the exercise will involve field personnel visiting various premises, including homes and commercial properties, to inspect the integrity of metering equipment. In a move to ensure the effectiveness of the audit, ECG has stated that no further notifications will be provided to customers or property managers before these inspections take place. This unannounced approach is intended to catch instances of meter tampering or illegal connections that might otherwise be concealed if advance warning were given. To protect the public from potential imposters, ECG has urged all customers to exercise caution and verify the identity of any person claiming to be an official inspector. Customers are encouraged to use the company’s designated hotlines or official USSD codes to confirm the credentials of field personnel before granting them access to their premises. This security measure is part of the company's commitment to maintaining safety and professional standards throughout the duration of the nationwide exercise. This audit comes at a time when the ECG is intensifying efforts to improve its revenue collection and operational efficiency. By identifying and rectifying illegal connections and faulty meters, the utility provider hopes to stabilize the power distribution network and ensure a fairer distribution of costs among all consumers. The successful execution of this audit is expected to contribute to the long-term sustainability of Ghana's energy sector by reducing the financial burden caused by non-technical losses.

Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Ahmed Ibrahim
energy and infrastructure|

Ahmed Ibrahim warns Ghana Water staff against service sabotage

Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, has issued a stern warning to the management and staff of Ghana Water Limited (GWL) against the politicization of their duties and the deliberate sabotage of water delivery operations. During a working visit to the utility company on October 20, 2026, the Minister emphasized that the provision of safe and clean water is a fundamental service that should not be compromised by internal negligence or partisan interests. Addressing the workforce, Ibrahim characterized the act of sabotaging the national water supply as a "curse" on those involved, noting that such behavior directly impacts the well-being of Ghanaians. He cautioned that the government would not tolerate actions that undermine public operations, drawing parallels to past failures in other state-run organizations caused by similar internal issues. The Minister urged employees to remain focused on their core responsibility of maintaining infrastructure and ensuring a reliable water supply across the country. A central focus of the Minister’s visit was the high rate of non-revenue water (NRW), which currently stands at 47%. This figure represents water that is produced but lost before it reaches the customer through leaks, theft, or metering inaccuracies. Ibrahim dismissed management's attempts to attribute these losses to recent flooding, describing such explanations as insufficient. Consequently, he issued a directive for the company to implement more effective measures to reduce the NRW rate to 40% or below by December 2026. Despite his criticisms, Ibrahim expressed confidence in the potential for Ghana Water Limited to improve its operational efficiency and service delivery. He challenged the management team to be more proactive in their approach to maintenance and revenue collection, asserting that a professional, non-partisan workforce is essential for the company's long-term sustainability. The set target of 40% serves as a benchmark for the ministry to evaluate the company's performance over the next two years.

Nana Opare Kwafo (middle), Chairman, Ghana Chamber of Construction, with some contractors at the Ministry of Roads and Highways, after their meeting with the Deputy Minister. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI
energy and infrastructure|

Road maintenance contractors demand payment for five years of arrears

A group of road maintenance contractors staged a demonstration at the Ministry of Roads and Highways in Accra to demand the settlement of significant arrears for projects completed as far back as five years ago. The protesters, primarily representing small-scale firms involved in routine road upkeep, gathered to voice their frustration over what they described as a protracted delay in government disbursements. These contractors are responsible for critical tasks such as pothole patching, drainage clearing, and vegetation control, which are essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of the national road network. The contractors detailed a harrowing account of financial ruin resulting from the government's inability to pay for certified works. Many individuals reported that their equipment had been seized by financial institutions after they defaulted on loans taken to execute the contracts. Some protesters claimed they have been evicted from their homes or are unable to pay their workers, noting that the loss of creditworthiness has effectively sidelined their local businesses. This financial strain has prevented them from bidding for new work or maintaining their current workforce, further exacerbating economic instability within the construction sector. Following the protest, a delegation was invited to meet with the Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini. During the session, the Deputy Minister listened to the specific concerns regarding the various tiers of outstanding debt. While the ministry did not provide an immediate timeline for the release of funds, Suhuyini assured the contractors that their claims are being prioritized within the government's financial planning. The government has committed to reconvening with the group in one month to provide a comprehensive update on the payment process and the availability of funds to clear the debt. The leadership of the contractors expressed a degree of cautious optimism at being heard but emphasized that their patience is nearly exhausted. They argued that the routine nature of their work requires consistent cash flow to be sustainable and that delays spanning several years are destructive to the industry. As the administration of President John Mahama continues to manage the nation's infrastructure goals, the resolution of these legacy debts remains a significant priority for the ministry. The contractors have indicated they will closely monitor the government's progress over the next four weeks, hoping for a definitive plan to restore their livelihoods.

John Jinapor says Ghana facilitates 40% of Burkina Faso petroleum transit
energy and infrastructure|

John Jinapor says Ghana facilitates 40% of Burkina Faso petroleum transit

Ghana has significantly increased its role in the regional energy market, now facilitating the transportation of 40% of Burkina Faso’s petroleum products. This represents a substantial growth from just 15% two years ago, signaling a deepening of bilateral energy ties between the two West African nations. The milestone was announced following high-level discussions between Ghanaian energy officials and a delegation from Burkina Faso's national petroleum company, Société Nationale Burkinabè d'Hydrocarbures (SONABHY). The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, confirmed the development after meeting with a SONABHY delegation led by its Managing Director, Dr. Patrice Forogo. The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in petroleum logistics and exploring other energy sectors for mutual benefit. The 25% increase in transit facilitation reflects Ghana's strategic focus on becoming a primary hub for petroleum distribution in the sub-region, leveraging its infrastructure to support landlocked neighbors. The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) is central to this expanded partnership. During a visit to the refinery, TOR’s Managing Director, Edmond Kombat, hosted Dr. Forogo and his team to provide insights into the facility's operations and storage capabilities. The visit aimed to strengthen the operational ties between TOR and SONABHY, ensuring that the logistics chain remains efficient as demand from Burkina Faso grows. Kombat emphasized that the refinery is committed to fostering cross-border trade and maintaining high standards in its supply arrangements. The enhanced cooperation is expected to provide Burkina Faso with more reliable energy security while boosting Ghana’s transit revenues and the utilization of its petroleum infrastructure. Moving forward, both countries intend to refine their logistics frameworks to sustain this growth. This partnership aligns with broader regional integration goals under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), positioning the Ghana-Burkina Faso energy corridor as a model for intra-African trade and cooperation.