Tema oil refinery resumes operations after six-year shutdown — Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has announced the resumption of operations at the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) after six years of inactivity, describing the development as a major milestone in Ghana’s energy security and industrial revitalisation agenda.
Delivering the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament, President Mahama said the refinery has successfully completed extensive turnaround maintenance under its new management, allowing it to resume processing crude oil into petroleum products.
“Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to inform this august House that the Tema Oil Refinery is back. For the first time since 2018, the refinery has commenced processing crude oil into petroleum products,” the President stated to applause from some members of Parliament.
President Mahama said the revival of TOR forms part of government’s broader strategy to strengthen Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector, reduce fuel import dependence, and create local jobs through industrialisation.
“The new management of the refinery has successfully completed extensive turnaround maintenance, and I am pleased to inform this august House that, for the first time since 2018, the refinery has commenced processing crude oil into petroleum products again,” he reiterated.
He explained that restoring operations at TOR is expected to improve domestic fuel supply stability, reduce foreign exchange pressure from petroleum imports, and enhance Ghana’s energy independence.
Government officials say the refinery’s return to operation will support local businesses within the petroleum value chain while contributing to national economic growth.
The President said energy sector reforms will continue to focus on improving efficiency, strengthening partnerships with private investors, and ensuring sustainable operations across Ghana’s energy infrastructure.
“Energy sector reforms continue unabated. I remain fully committed to turning around the sector, strengthening its foundations, and ensuring reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy security for our nation,” he assured.
The revival of the Tema Oil Refinery is being widely viewed as one of the key achievements outlined in the President’s 2026 State of the Nation Address, alongside reforms in gas supply, electricity distribution, and renewable energy expansion.
Analysts have previously highlighted the strategic importance of TOR in supporting Ghana’s downstream petroleum market, especially as global fuel prices remain volatile.
Government says further investments and partnerships will be explored to ensure TOR operates at optimal capacity in the coming years.
