The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has assured the public that Ghana has sufficient fuel reserves to last more than five weeks despite escalating tensions in the Middle East that have unsettled global oil markets.
Speaking on The Probe on JoyNews, the NPA’s Director of Economic Regulation and Planning, Abass Ibrahim Tasunti, said current stock levels remain strong and stable.
According to him, diesel stocks can sustain the country for about 5.3 weeks, while petrol reserves are expected to last approximately 6.8 weeks based on prevailing consumption rates.
Mr. Tasunti explained that the stock levels are part of routine supply planning and not an emergency response to geopolitical developments. He added that fuel imports are ongoing, with vessels currently at anchorage in Tema awaiting discharge.
He also highlighted the role of domestic processing facilities in supporting supply. The Sentuo Oil Refinery has been contributing to local fuel availability, while the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant continues to supply liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to the domestic market.
“Our mandate is to ensure consistent availability of petroleum products across the country,” Mr. Tasunti stated, stressing that the Authority is closely monitoring global developments.
However, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has urged caution. Its Executive Secretary, Duncan Amoah, noted that although stock levels may be adequate, much of the fuel is held by private bulk importers rather than as part of a state-controlled strategic reserve.
He warned that international supply disruptions particularly concerns surrounding shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz could still influence pump prices even if physical shortages are avoided.
Ghana imports the bulk of its refined petroleum products, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in global crude oil prices. Nonetheless, the NPA maintains that there is no immediate threat to domestic fuel availability.