NPA pushes for resilient downstream sector through policy, innovation and investment

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) is calling for greater resilience in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector through strategic policies, innovation and increased investment to help the industry withstand global energy shocks.

The Chief Executive of the NPA, Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, said recent geopolitical tensions have exposed vulnerabilities in global fuel supply chains, making it necessary for countries to adopt sustainable measures to secure energy supplies.

Speaking at the 7th Ghana International Petroleum Conference (GhIPCon 2026) in Accra, Mr Tamakloe said Ghana’s ability to maintain fuel availability during recent global uncertainties demonstrated the country’s preparedness.

“Ghana was able to navigate through these turbulent times because of deliberate interventions and coordinated efforts to safeguard the stability of the downstream sector,” he said.

He noted that the government’s decision to temporarily remove some margins on petrol and diesel helped cushion consumers from sharp increases in fuel prices and reduced pressure on the economy.

The NPA Chief Executive stressed that building a resilient downstream sector requires robust fuel supply systems, improved infrastructure, operational efficiency and institutions capable of responding swiftly to market disruptions.

“Resilience is not built overnight. It requires continuous investment in infrastructure, technology, human capital and systems that allow us to respond effectively to changing global dynamics,” Mr Tamakloe stated.

He also highlighted the importance of digital transformation, automation, smart logistics and cleaner fuel technologies in improving efficiency and competitiveness within the petroleum industry.

According to him, investment remains critical to expanding storage and transportation infrastructure while developing the skills required to support Ghana’s long-term energy ambitions.

Mr Tamakloe further indicated that Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector, which contributes about 10 per cent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), requires a regulatory environment that protects consumers while creating confidence for investors.

“Our goal is to create a downstream sector that is competitive, sustainable and attractive to investment while ensuring that consumers are protected,” he added.

With opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the NPA believes Ghana is strategically positioned to become a regional hub for petroleum trading, storage, transportation and distribution.

The seventh edition of GhIPCon brought together policymakers, regulators, investors and industry players from more than 25 countries to discuss the future and transformation of Africa’s downstream petroleum sector.

The conference focused on issues including energy security, petroleum supply resilience, investment opportunities, regulatory reforms, technology, innovation, sustainability and the transformation of Africa’s downstream petroleum industry.

Key discussions centred on how countries can respond to global energy disruptions, leverage emerging technologies, promote cleaner fuel solutions and build more efficient and resilient downstream sectors.

At the conference, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr John Jinapor, said the one million barrels of crude oil from the Jubilee Field expected to be refined by the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) would help ensure adequate domestic fuel supply amid ongoing global geopolitical tensions.

The Chief Executive of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), Dr Riverson Oppong, also called for increased investment, innovation and stronger collaboration among stakeholders to build a resilient downstream petroleum sector capable of withstanding global market shocks.

GhIPCon 2026 provided a platform for stakeholders from more than 25 countries to exchange ideas and explore strategies to strengthen the petroleum value chain, improve fuel supply systems, attract investment and position Ghana as a competitive petroleum hub in the sub-region.