President John Dramani Mahama has assured that coastal communities in the Western Region affected by oil and gas activities will see direct improvements in infrastructure, sea defense, and social services under his next development agenda.

The president made it clear that the discovery of petroleum in the region must be a blessing and not a burden.

He stated that towns like Essiama and Anochie, located in the oil-producing enclaves, would benefit from better roads, bridges, schools, health facilities, and agribusiness support as part of the government’s commitment to inclusive development.

He explained that the government is expanding sea defense projects along the coast to protect fishing communities from tidal wave erosion.

These efforts, he noted are also aimed at preserving marine livelihoods and supporting the coastal economy.

President Mahama revealed that the government will establish a dedicated oil and gas services hub at the Takoradi Port through a public-private partnership.

He said the expansion of the port would include new container terminals and dry bulk facilities to boost exports and reduce delays for vessels.

He added that the (Local Content and Local Participation) Regulations, 2013 (L.I. 2204) would be strengthened to ensure young people in the Western Region gain access to petroleum jobs, contracts, and technical training.

The president also announced that the Ministry of Energy had been directed to renegotiate land arrangements with landowners around the planned petroleum hub.

He said the government will release unused portions of land back to communities and pay compensation for land that will be used, starting with 5,000 hectares instead of the initially acquired 20,000 hectares.

He stressed that oil wealth must translate into better living conditions for the people whose lands and livelihoods are affected by exploration and production activities.

Jacob Aggrey

Parliament has approved the appointment of four Members of Parliament (MPs) as deputy ministers.

The decision followed the adoption of a report by the Appointments Committee, which vetted the nominees and recommended their approval by consensus.

Those approved include Hon. Dorcas Affo-Toffey, MP for Jomoro, who will serve as Deputy Minister for Transport, and Hon. James Gyakye Quayson, MP for Assin North, who will take up the role of Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Also approved were Hon. Mohammed Adam Sukparu, MP for Sissala West, as Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, and Hon. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, MP for Essikado-Ketan, as Deputy Minister for Health.

Presenting the committee’s report in Parliament, the Chairman, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, said the nominees were questioned on their experience, qualifications, and vision during a public hearing held on 25th July 2025.

He noted that the committee was satisfied with their performance and found them competent and suitable for the positions.

The nominations were referred to the Appointments Committee by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, on 17th July 2025.

This followed a formal request by President John Mahama, in line with the 1992 Constitution.