By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has inaugurated the new Board of the Petroleum Commission, urging members to confront the challenges facing Ghana’s upstream oil and gas industry with unity and expertise.
Mr. Jinapor said the sector is under pressure from shrinking reserves, reduced investment and arbitration disputes, alongside concerns about local participation in oil and gas exploration.
“In recent years, the upstream industry has faced serious challenges, including dwindling oil and gas reserves and declining production. Investment has slowed, and local content and participation remain a concern, especially in the core business of exploration and production,” he stated.
The Minister assured the Board of government’s commitment to reforms aimed at making the sector more attractive. “In line with the President’s vision, we have already begun processes to amend our laws and regulations to introduce flexibility in the fiscal regime and increase predictability and transparency,” he explained.
He further charged the Board to bring their knowledge and experience together for the growth of the industry. “The task ahead of you is onerous, considering the global upstream industry, but I encourage you to synergize your individual expertise to enhance Ghana’s upstream sector,” he urged.
Mr. Jinapor also pledged his backing for the Board. “You have my full support in the discharge of your activities,” he added.
The new Board, chaired by Mr. Ernest Thompson, includes Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle, Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Crisler Akwei Ankrah, Hon. Mensah Joseph Kwasi, Dr. Hasiyatu Abubakari, and Hassan Thompson Osman.
