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President Akufo-Addo breaks ground on $12 Billion Petroleum Hub Project
In a significant move poised to reshape Ghana’s energy landscape, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has broken ground on the first phase of the ambitious Petroleum Hub Project.
The ceremony, held on August 19, 2024, in Nawule, Jomoro, Western Region, marks the commencement of a transformative journey aimed at creating a modern, diversified, and financially sustainable energy economy for the country.
The Petroleum Hub Project, which carries an estimated total cost of $12 billion, is designed to elevate Ghana’s standing as a key player in Africa’s energy sector. The hub, which will be developed in three independent phases, is set to include a 300,000 barrels per day (bpsd) refinery, a petrochemical plant, and extensive storage and port facilities. The project’s scale and ambition highlight Ghana’s commitment to addressing its energy challenges and leveraging its resources for long-term growth.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, President Akufo-Addo expressed his optimism about the project’s potential to transform Ghana’s economy. “Today is a very good day for our homeland, Ghana. This project promises to be a cornerstone of our nation’s development, ensuring that all Ghanaian homes and industries have access to reliable, affordable, and environmentally sustainable energy.”
The President underscored the strategic importance of the project, noting that it would not compete with existing refineries in the region but rather complement them, with a focus on serving the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) market. The hub is expected to create approximately 780,000 direct and indirect jobs, stabilize the national currency, and stimulate local economic development.
President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the environmental considerations embedded in the project, emphasizing the incorporation of cutting-edge technology and green buffers to support local fauna and flora.
The President directed the Ministry of Energy to ensure the training of 200,000 skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled Ghanaians in preparation for the project’s takeoff, with a significant portion of these workers coming from the Jomoro area.
“We envision a facility that will be a benchmark for crude and petroleum product pricing in Africa,” he stated, stressing the project’s alignment with global environmental sustainability standards.
The first phase of the project, led by the TCP-UIC Consortium, represents a crucial step towards achieving Ghana’s energy goals. The consortium, comprising several international and local partners, has been chosen for its technical expertise and financial capacity to deliver on the project’s ambitious timelines. President Akufo-Addo assured the consortium of the government’s full support, stating, “Your success is our priority.”
In addition to the economic and environmental benefits, the project is expected to have a profound social impact, particularly in the Jomoro enclave. The President announced the allocation of GH¢200 million by the Ministry of Finance for land compensation to affected communities, recognizing the generous contributions of the Chiefs and people of Jomoro who have offered their land for the project.
President Akufo-Addo commended their dedication and collaboration, which have been instrumental in bringing the project to fruition. He called on all stakeholders to unite in making the Petroleum Hub Project a reality, emphasizing its importance for future generations.
The project is also expected to lead to the establishment of the Jomoro Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (JPHDC), with its headquarters in Jomoro.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including government officials, traditional leaders, and representatives from the private sector.
As Ghana embarks on this bold initiative, the Petroleum Hub Project stands as a testament to the nation’s determination to achieve energy independence, economic diversification, and sustainable development.
Ghanaian cinema continues to break boundaries as Vibes The Movie has received an official nomination at the prestigious Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) in Toronto.
This latest international recognition is another proud moment for Ghana and a powerful testament to the creativity, originality, and global appeal of Ghanaian storytelling.
Directed by Big Ghun and starring Jeffrey Nortey, Vibes The Movie evolved from the hugely successful social media series, where the beloved characters Obolo Tui and Lil Pui captured the hearts of millions with their unique blend of rap, comedy, and relatable stories about the everyday struggles and ambitions of Ghanaian youth.
The film has already brought honour to Ghana on the international stage, most recently winning an Outstanding Achievement Award at the American Motion Pictures Festival in the United States.
The Chronicle noted that the film was recognized for its originality, craftsmanship, and storytelling impact among a competitive pool of global entries.
Now, with a nomination at TINFF in Canada, Vibes The Movie continues its remarkable journey from the streets of Accra to some of the world’s most respected film platforms.
The nomination underscores the growing global appreciation for authentic African stories and confirms that Ghanaian filmmakers are making a significant mark in international cinema.
As Vibes The Movie flies the Black Star high in Toronto, Ghana celebrates yet another cultural achievement that showcases the country’s talent, resilience, and storytelling excellence to the world
A prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has broken silence on the deep-seated internal machinations within the party, warning that the continuous victimization of members could severely jeopardize unity ahead of the general elections.
In a post on the party’s internal democratic processes, the former National Entrpreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) boss, Kofi Ofosu Nkansah revealed how personal ambitions were stifled by party elites in the Asante Akyem Central constituency, despite overwhelming grassroots support.
According to the aggrieved party member, the decision to run for the parliamentary seat was not a self-serving agenda but a direct response to a call to service by the local constituents.
“My Asante Akyem Central people loved my politics and approached me to come and serve them as MP,” he stated.
He added that “But my own party elders blocked me and supported the incumbent MP to cheat through the system as if I was an outsider.”
The unfair playing field he revealed led to a massive financial distress. The stalwart disclosed incurring massive debts across two consecutive primary election cycles, alongside other personal challenges.
Despite the systemic sabotage, Kofi Ofosu Nkansah noted that he remained loyal, continuously defending both the NPP party and the government’s policies at all levels.
“Seeing what’s going on in the current polling station elections in several constituencies, it seems not much has changed,” he warned.
“The victimization of those who want to challenge current or former MPs should stop,” he stated.
With the general elections approaching, he cautioned,”You don’t treat party people anyhow and expect unconditional unity for the general elections.”
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
