Tema Oil Refinery resumes operations after four years as Ghana targets local crude processin

Ghana's energy sector has received a significant boost after the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) resumed crude oil processing following its first major maintenance overhaul in four years.

President John Mahama announced the development on Thursday, describing it as a key milestone in efforts to revive the country's refining industry, strengthen energy security and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.

The restart of operations comes as Ghana pushes to expand local refining capacity at a time of heightened uncertainty in global energy markets.

TOR returns to production

Speaking at the commissioning of Phase II of the Sentuo Oil Refinery on Thursday , President Mahama said TOR had successfully completed a major turnaround maintenance programme and was back processing crude oil.

The refinery, one of Ghana's most strategic energy assets, has faced operational challenges in recent years, making its return to production a closely watched development for industry players and consumers alike.

"I'm pleased to report that the Tema Oil Refinery has completed its first major turnaround maintenance exercise in four years and has resumed crude oil processing," the President said.

Ghana's own crude oil set for refining

In what could mark a major shift for the country's downstream petroleum industry, President Mahama disclosed that TOR is expected to receive a consignment of Ghana-produced crude oil once the refinery reaches full operational capacity.

According to him, the refinery is expected to ramp up production in July, paving the way for local crude to be processed domestically rather than exported for refining abroad.

"My understanding is that in July, when they have fully ramped up capacity, they will also receive a parcel of Ghana's own crude," he said.

Industry experts say refining more locally produced crude could help Ghana retain greater value from its natural resources while strengthening domestic fuel security.

A wider reform agenda

The announcement comes amid broader reforms in Ghana's petroleum downstream sector.

President Mahama revealed that the Petroleum Downstream Sector Reform Committee has completed its work and

submitted recommendations that are now being implemented.

The reforms are aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening regulation and increasing refining capacity across the sector.

Authorities are also seeking to modernise operations and improve the financial sustainability of key institutions within

the petroleum value chain.

Why the restart matters

The return of TOR is expected to have implications beyond the energy sector.

A more active domestic refining industry could reduce Ghana's exposure to global fuel supply disruptions, improve foreign exchange management and support industrial growth.

The development also comes at a time when governments across Africa are placing renewed emphasis on local refining as a way to capture more value from oil production.

Fuel supply remains stable

Despite geopolitical tensions and volatility in global energy markets, President Mahama said Ghana has maintained stable fuel supplies through coordinated action by the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, the National Petroleum Authority and industry stakeholders.

He said strategic fuel reserves have been maintained to ensure uninterrupted nationwide supply.

For businesses and consumers, the successful restart of TOR could signal the beginning of a new chapter for Ghana's energy sector, with policymakers hoping increased local refining will strengthen the economy and improve long-term energy resilience.