From Joana Kumi, Accra
Recent global energy disruptions have underscored the urgent need for Ghana to strengthen local refining capacity and maintain adequate fuel reserves, the Managing Director of Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), Edmond Kombat, has stated.
Speaking to journalists during a visit organised under the African Extractive Media Fellowship, Mr. Kombat noted that improving domestic refining capacity would help stabilise fuel supply and reduce the impact of international price fluctuations on national economies.
He urged African countries to invest in strategic storage systems and develop regional pricing mechanisms to limit dependence on external markets.
Mr. Kombat also announced that TOR has recorded a significant operational turnaround following months of technical repairs and strategic reforms. He revealed that when the current management team took office, the refinery had accumulated substantial debt, several critical plants were not maintained, and operations had stalled, creating uncertainty among staff and stakeholders.
DEVELOP THE ECONOMY
When I hear the buzz of the little world among the stalks, and grow familiar with the countless indescribable forms of the insects and flies, then I feel.
Ghana’s Tema Oil Refinery is back in operation, signaling a renewed push for domestic refining and energy security in the face of global disruptions.?
To address these challenges, management adopted a “mindset shift” strategy, focusing on rebuilding staff confidence and fostering teamwork. “We had to assure our staff that it was possible to get the refinery back on track,” he said.
Management engaged employees directly, reviewed long-standing petitions, and addressed workplace concerns to strengthen unity and commitment.
The refinery officially resumed operations on September 19, 2025, relying on internally generated revenue and operational adjustments rather than immediate external funding.
“We are just starting, but the confidence and willingness to work have changed,” he said..
Rehabilitation work is ongoing on storage tanks and processing units, while contractors continue to restore additional infrastructure to enhance efficiency.
Mr. Kombat disclosed that more than 400 temporary workers were engaged during the restoration period, creating employment opportunities. Staff salaries were also increased by approximately 10 percent to motivate employees and recognise their contribution to the turnaround.
TOR plans to expand production capacity
Looking forward, TOR plans to expand production capacity and modernise equipment to meet Ghana’s fuel demand and reinforce national energy security. Mr. Kombat described the facility as a strategic national asset, crucial for storing crude oil and refining petroleum products for distribution across the country.
The Managing Director further highlighted TOR’s commitment to sustainability, including adopting energy-efficient technologies and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
He expressed optimism about the refinery’s future, noting that renewed staff confidence and improved operational systems had positioned the facility for long-term stability.ccidental.
