ECOWAS delegation begins study tour of NPA's fuel quality regulation

A delegation from the ECOWAS Commission has begun a three-day study tour in Ghana to understudy the National Petroleum Authority's (NPA) regulation of the downstream petroleum industry, particularly its fuel quality standards.

The delegation is made up of regulators and officials from institutions responsible for managing the downstream petroleum sector across the ECOWAS sub-region.

The visit, according to a statement issued on Tuesday, July 14, is aimed at promoting knowledge sharing and strengthening regional cooperation in the implementation of harmonised fuel quality standards.

The NPA noted that the study tour will provide a platform for member states to exchange experiences, share best practices and build capacity to accelerate the adoption of common fuel quality standards across the region.

Welcoming the delegation on Monday, the Chief Executive of the NPA, Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, described Ghana's fuel quality assurance framework as a useful model for other ECOWAS member states.

He, however, stated that each Member State should adapt best practices to its unique national context.

Mr. Tameklo also stressed the importance of collaboration, peer learning and sustained partnerships in building a more integrated, resilient and efficient regional petroleum market.

Responding on behalf of the delegation, the Acting Director of Energy and Mines at the ECOWAS Commission, Arkadius Koumoine, highlighted the significance of harmonised fuel quality standards to the region.

According to him, harmonised fuel quality standards are critical to protecting public health, preserving the environment, enhancing energy security, and combating illicit fuel trade.