Sentuo Refinery expansion to drive jobs, energy security – Mahama

By: Eugene Dogbatse Atsu
President John Dramani Mahama says the expansion of the Sentuo Oil Refinery will accelerate Ghana’s industrial growth, create jobs, and strengthen the country’s energy security.

The President made the remarks on Friday when he cut the sod for Phase II of the Sentuo Oil Refinery project, a major investment expected to more than double the facility’s processing capacity from 40,000 barrels per day to 100,000 barrels per day.

Addressing stakeholders at the ceremony, Mr. Mahama underscored the importance of expanding local industrial capacity as part of efforts to transform the economy and reduce dependence on imported goods and petroleum products.

“Ghana’s development strategy is centered on moving beyond the export of raw materials to building a resilient economy that processes, manufactures, and creates value within its borders,” the President stated.

He explained that the refinery expansion represents a significant step in the government’s industrialisation agenda, which seeks to promote value addition and create sustainable economic opportunities for citizens.

According to him, increasing local refining capacity will help ensure a more reliable supply of petroleum products while enhancing the country’s ability to meet growing energy demands.

President Mahama noted that the project will have a far-reaching impact on employment, with thousands of direct and indirect jobs expected to be created during the construction phase and after the facility becomes operational.

He further indicated that the investment demonstrates growing confidence in Ghana’s economic prospects and reinforces the country’s ambition to become a leading industrial and energy hub in West Africa.

The President stressed that industrial development remains central to the government’s efforts to reset the economy, improve productivity, and generate long-term prosperity for Ghanaians.

The expanded refinery is expected to play a critical role in supporting the nation’s broader economic transformation agenda by boosting local production, reducing import dependency, and contributing to energy independence.

Industry stakeholders described the project as a strategic investment that will strengthen Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector while supporting growth across several sectors of the economy.

Upon completion, the Phase II expansion is expected to significantly increase the refinery’s output and enhance its contribution to national development, making it a key component of Ghana’s industrialisation and energy strategy.