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Parliament Approves Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill
Parliament has approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025 despite fierce opposing views from the Minority Caucus.
Presenting the Bill on the floor of the House, the Minister of Finance Cassiel Ato Forson noted that, the Bill is intended to raise additional revenue to address the nation’s crippling energy sector debt and also ensure stable power supply.
The Bill which was laid under a certificate of urgency is expected levy GHS 1 on petroleum products and raise revenue to cover the energy sector’s total indebtedness which stands at US$3.1 billion as of March 2025.
The Minister assured Parliament that the impact of the new levy on ex-pump prices would be absorbed by the gains made from the strong performance of the Ghana Cedi meaning consumers would not experience an immediate price hike.
However, the Minority Caucus led by their leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin vehemently opposed the Bill, describing it as an inappropriate burden on Ghanaians and E-levy in another form.
For his part, the Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga noted that, the passage of the Bill will eventually end the persistent power crises known as “dumsor”.
“Contribute “one cedi, just one cedi” per litre of fuel to secure a stable power future” he stated.
Government has inaugurated a Technical Committee to drive the implementation of the Accra Marine Drive Tourism Investment Project, a key initiative aimed at transforming the capital’s waterfront into a world-class tourism and commercial hub.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, described the move as a critical step to accelerate progress, stressing the need for efficiency, collaboration, and accountability.
The Committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Yussif Issaka Jajah, will coordinate stakeholders, address bottlenecks, and ensure timely delivery of the project.
The initiative is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has stepped up its fire safety education efforts in Suhum Municipality and Abetifi Odwenease as part of ongoing campaigns to prevent fire outbreaks and improve emergency readiness.
In Suhum, fire officers engaged traders and customers, educating them on handling LPG leakages, proper use of fire extinguishers, and general shop safety practices. Meanwhile, the Kwahu East Command extended outreach in Abetifi Odwenease, visiting homes, drinking spots, construction sites, and stores to promote safe handling of flammable materials, proper electrical usage, and correct gas cylinder placement.
Practical demonstrations on fire extinguisher use were conducted, and residents were encouraged to adopt good housekeeping habits and proactive safety measures to reduce fire risks and protect lives and property.
