ULSAN, South Korea.
On Thursday, March 12, the Chief Executive Officer of the Tema Oil Refinery Edmund Kombat joined president John Mahama, senior government officials, and downstream energy industry leaders to launch the Sahara LPG vessel MT Asharami Ghana in Ulsan, South Korea.
The vessel, owned by Sahara Group, is expected to significantly improve liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply chains in Ghana and across West Africa, marking an important milestone in the region’s energy sector.
Officials say the new vessel will expand regional LPG transport capacity, helping ensure safer and more reliable energy supplies for households and businesses. The development is also expected to strengthen Ghana’s energy security, enhance operational efficiency in LPG distribution, and support the country’s broader transition toward cleaner energy sources.
Speaking at the launch, President Mahama described the initiative as a major boost to Ghana’s energy infrastructure. He noted that Ghana currently produces about 50 percent of its LPG domestically and relies on imports to meet the remaining demand.
Mahama commended Sahara Group for its role in advancing Ghana’s energy infrastructure and expressed optimism that the new vessel would help stabilize LPG supply chains while supporting growing regional energy needs.
Industry stakeholders say the MT Asharami Ghana could also contribute to Ghana’s long-term energy sovereignty, while stimulating economic growth and promoting sustainable development across the region.

