Tema Oil Refinery Revival: A Bold Step Towards Energy Independence

Ghana has taken a significant stride towards securing its energy future with the revival of the Tema Oil Refinery. This bold move signals a commitment to self-sufficiency and economic growth, with far-reaching implications for the country's development.

The refinery's revival is expected to reduce Ghana's reliance on imported fuel, stabilizing prices and alleviating the burden on citizens. With the country's energy demands on the rise, this move is timely and crucial. The refinery's operations will not only meet domestic needs but also create new opportunities for job creation and economic diversification.

This development showcases leadership focused on tangible results, prioritizing the nation's energy security and economic prosperity. By taking control of its oil refining capabilities, Ghana is charting a path towards energy independence and sustainable growth.

The Tema Oil Refinery's revival is a testament to Ghana's potential and determination. As the nation continues to navigate its development journey, this milestone will be remembered as a significant step towards a brighter, more prosperous future.

The resumption follows the successful completion of extensive Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) works on the refinery’s Crude Distillation Unit (CDU), carried out between August 1 and October 30, 2025. TOR said the maintenance was completed within schedule and in line with international engineering, safety and operational standards.

After the maintenance works, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) conducted regulatory inspections and cleared the refinery to resume operations, confirming that TOR had met all mandatory safety and operational requirements. In a statement issued on Saturday December 27, TOR attributed the revival to sustained government support, commending President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, for their leadership and oversight in restoring the refinery to operation.

The Legal Green Association (LGA) has welcomed the resumption of operations at the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), describing it as a major milestone in Ghana’s energy sector and a strong signal of renewed national commitment to strategic state institutions. In a press release signed by Festus Matey, Leader of the Legal Green Association, and Evans Mawunyo Tsikata, Head of Politics and Elections issued on Monday, December 29, 2025, the association said the revival of TOR after years of inactivity reflects decisive leadership and a renewed focus on long-term national interests.

LGA commended the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, led by President John Dramani Mahama, for what it described as the political will and leadership demonstrated in restoring the refinery to operational status. LGA said Mr Kombat’s technical expertise and commitment to national service exemplify the potential of young professionals when given responsibility and the opportunity to contribute to nation-building.

In addition, LGA praised the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr John Abdulai Jinapor, for providing what it termed effective leadership and clear policy direction that ensured the successful completion of the turnaround maintenance project and compliance with regulatory requirements. According to the association, the restart of refining operations at TOR should serve as motivation for young people across the country, demonstrating that discipline, competence and dedication to public service can produce tangible national outcomes.

LGA expressed hope that the renewed operations at TOR would be sustained and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s energy security and economic development, while urging continued commitment to the government’s broader national “resetting” agenda.

Speaking on TV3 New Day on Monday, December 29, Edudzi Tamakloe stressed that TOR must be supported to expand its production capacity. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, has said the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) needs additional financial support to serve markets beyond Ghana.

TOR, under new management, recently announced the resumption of crude oil refining after years of inactivity, a development that has drawn public praise. "This achievement follows the successful completion of major Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) works on the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU), executed within three months, from August 1, 2025, to October 30, 2025.

The maintenance works were undertaken in strict compliance with international engineering, safety, and operational standards," TOR said in a statement released on December 22.

He added that following the completion of the TAM, the NPA conducted comprehensive regulatory inspections and confirmed TOR'S full compliance with all mandatory safety and operational requirements, granting clearance for the resumption of refining activities.

However, according to the NPA boss, the state-owned refinery would require approximately $200 million for a full-scale revamp to serve markets beyond Ghana.

"Though the refinery has resumed operation, I strongly believe we need to encourage government to invest more," he said. "I do not think we need to have a refinery that only serves the Ghanaian market but one that serves beyond the borders of Ghana as well. If TOR is able to ramp up production to 45,000 barrels a day, it will project the country well," he added.

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