The Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Mr. Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, has underscored the critical role of technology, innovation and strategic policy reforms in improving Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector and making life easier for citizens.
Speaking at a press soiree with journalists on Monday evening, Mr. Tamakloe said government policy interventions in the energy sector are being carefully designed to respond to global changes while prioritising national interest.
“When we were discussing policy intervention, one key thing is that reforms must be forward-looking. We are looking at investment, innovation and technology as critical pillars,” he stated.
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Mr. Tamakloe revealed that Ghana recently launched a major energy conference in Berlin, aimed at attracting strategic investment into the downstream petroleum sector.
“Last week, we launched the conference in Berlin. What we intend to do this year is to examine intervention policies, investment opportunities and issues of innovation,” he said.
According to him, emerging technologies, including digital systems and patent-based licensing, could help streamline regulatory processes and promote efficiency.
“With technology, you can determine which licence to grant, which to defer or even sell cheaper to promote growth. Development of technology will make things easier,” he added.
Addressing concerns raised about foreign dominance in the downstream petroleum sector, Mr. Tamakloe acknowledged existing tensions between multinational firms and local players but stressed the need for balance rather than abrupt exclusion.
“Today, most of the players are multinational. They have invested heavily, not just in infrastructure but also in financial portfolios. Taking business away from them overnight and giving it to locals is not realistic,” he explained.
He noted that Ghana’s downstream sector currently features both foreign and local ownership, with local content participation often structured through shareholding and percentage ownership models.
“The worst-case scenario is percentage ownership, but that is still progress. Several businesses within the downstream are owned by both foreign and local accounts,” he said.
Mr. Tamakloe indicated that the government’s approach is gradual and strategic, with a long-term vision of strengthening Ghanaian ownership and capacity in the sector.
“In the next five years or so, we want to see stronger Ghanaian participation. We are looking at all models and scenarios to make life better for our countrymen,” he stated.
The NPA CEO reiterated that all reforms align with the nationalist vision of President John Dramani Mahama, particularly in safeguarding economic and national security.
He stressed that stability, security and responsible policymaking remain central to government decision-making.
Mr. Tamakloe assured the media of the NPA’s commitment to continuous engagement, transparency and accountability, even when complex policy questions arise.