The Africa Sustainable Energy Centre (ASEC) has welcomed the Government of Ghana’s decision to remove selected taxes and margins on petroleum products, describing the move as timely relief for households and the transport sector amid rising global fuel prices.
In a statement issued in Accra, ASEC praised John Dramani Mahama and his administration for what it termed a “swift and decisive” response following an emergency Cabinet meeting held on April 9, 2026, at Jubilee House.
The policy intervention comes against the backdrop of escalating global oil prices driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which have significantly impacted fuel costs worldwide.
ASEC noted that the government’s action reflects a responsive and citizen-focused approach to energy governance, particularly in times of external economic shocks. The Centre emphasised that rising fuel prices have far-reaching implications beyond transportation, affecting food security, small businesses, and the overall cost of living.
The think tank further indicated that Ghana is in a position to absorb the fiscal impact of the tax cuts, citing windfall revenues from crude oil exports due to global prices exceeding the country’s 2026 budget benchmark of $76.22 per barrel.
ASEC also commended the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) for exercising restraint in not immediately increasing transport fares, following an appeal by the President, describing the move as a demonstration of national solidarity.
While endorsing the government’s immediate intervention, ASEC called for broader structural reforms to strengthen Ghana’s energy resilience. It urged authorities to explore preferential oil supply agreements with African producers such as Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, and Algeria, in order to reduce dependence on Middle Eastern sources.
The Centre stressed the need for medium- to long-term measures, including expanding strategic petroleum reserves, renegotiating royalty and revenue agreements with oil companies, and strengthening contractual provisions to better manage supply disruptions.
ASEC also highlighted the importance of rehabilitating the Tema Oil Refinery to reduce reliance on imported refined fuels, alongside accelerating investments in renewable energy such as solar and wind to diversify the national energy mix.
In addition, the Centre advocated a hybrid energy transition strategy that balances continued use of oil and gas with a gradual shift toward cleaner technologies, including the promotion of electric mobility.
ASEC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government and stakeholders in advancing policies that promote energy security, affordability, and sustainability.
The statement was signed by the Executive Director of ASEC, Ing. Justice Ohene-Akoto.
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