Explorco, the exploration arm of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), says it is firmly on track to commence drilling in the Voltaian Basin by September 2026, following steady progress on key project milestones and strong backing from local communities.
Managing Director Samuel Opoku Arthur confirmed that critical preparatory work has been completed, with contract awards expected by January 2026. He noted that vendor pre-qualification and stakeholder engagements — particularly with traditional authorities — are well advanced.
“We are confident in the progress made so far,” Arthur said, describing the Voltaian Basin initiative as a major step toward strengthening Ghana’s operational capabilities and improving national energy security.
The onshore exploration effort marks a major strategic shift for Ghana’s petroleum sector, which has long focused on offshore fields. Covering around 103,600 square kilometres — roughly a third of the country — the basin spans parts of the Northern, Savannah, Bono East, Oti and Ashanti Regions.
Explorco was established to enhance Ghana’s role from mainly a non-operating partner to a fully capable operator. During the recent Africa Oil Week in Accra, President John Dramani Mahama said GNPC and Explorco are progressing toward drilling two exploration wells by the end of the third quarter of 2026.
Arthur added that the company is prepared to press ahead even without international partners, citing encouraging geological results that indicate hydrocarbon potential. “Even if we do not get any partner now, we can do the minimum that will unravel the asset’s true nature,” he said.
The renewed drive comes as the country confronts declining oil production. Data from the Public Interest and Accountability Committee shows output has fallen each year since peaking at 71.44 million barrels in 2019, dropping to 48.25 million barrels in 2024. First-half production for 2025 was down 26 percent year-on-year.
Explorco has finalized site selection and launched environmental and social impact assessments, while an advance team intensifies community consultations. Arthur pointed to a “very encouraging” reception from traditional leaders. During a visit to the Gbewaa Palace, Yaa Naa Abukari II expressed support for the initiative, saying successful discoveries could be transformative for communities in northern Ghana.
To maximize local participation, the company has developed a three-tier procurement strategy. Tier A covers highly specialized services requiring foreign expertise; Tier B encourages partnerships between local and international firms; and Tier C is reserved entirely for Ghanaian businesses such as logistics, security and catering.
“We want our people to work side by side with the service providers, not observe from a distance,” Arthur said.
Explorco’s board is chaired by Dr. Aaron Issa Anafure, with Arthur as Managing Director. Other board members include Stella Bondzie, Kwame Ntow Amoah and Benjamin Narteh Ayiku.
