Ghana’s petroleum sector, once a promising contributor to the nation’s economy, has faced a significant setback in recent years. John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has attributed this decline—marked by a 35% reduction in petroleum production—to corruption within the current government. According to Mahama, this has driven away major investors, including global energy giant ExxonMobil, to neighboring countries like Ivory Coast.
During a meeting with the Western Regional House of Chiefs in Sekondi as part of his three-day tour of the region, Mahama expressed concerns about the state of Ghana’s petroleum industry. He alleged that some government officials have demanded exorbitant payments from investors for access to oil blocks, eroding trust and confidence in the sector.
A Stark Contrast: Then and Now
Mahama highlighted the progress made during his tenure as President, emphasizing efforts that attracted significant investments into the petroleum industry. He lamented that corruption under the current administration has reversed these gains, leaving Ghana’s oil sector in a precarious position.
He also noted that the decline in petroleum production has broader implications for Ghana’s economy, as it diminishes the country’s ability to compete in the global energy market. “There is a lot of hard work that will be required by the new government,” Mahama stated. “I will not deceive you that it will be easy to revive the country. It will demand a lot of hard work to revive it. I believe that NDC has the people to do that work.”
A Vision for the Future
Mahama assured the chiefs and other stakeholders that an NDC-led government would implement a comprehensive strategy to restore investor confidence and revitalize Ghana’s petroleum sector. He emphasized the urgency of taking advantage of existing oil reserves before global demand for fossil fuels diminishes due to climate change and the rise of electric vehicles.
“We have decided to talk to the oil companies to come back and work with us,” Mahama said. “There is something called climate change, and they have started manufacturing electric vehicles for people to withdraw from investing in oil. So this is the time to put your oil on fast sales, else it will get to a time where no one will purchase oil from you. We have to be fast about it so that we can benefit from it.”
Addressing Broader Concerns
The Paramount Chief of Lower Axim, Awulae Attribrukusu, and the Paramount Queen Mother of Shama, Nana Akosua Gyamfiaba, raised additional concerns during Mahama’s visit. They highlighted issues such as the poor state of healthcare and environmental devastation caused by illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey. The chiefs urged Mahama to take decisive action, including banning the manufacturing and importation of Changfan machines used in illegal mining, should he return to power.
Engaging with Stakeholders
In addition to his discussions with traditional leaders, Mahama met with members of the Western Regional Clergy in the Effia Constituency. His tour is expected to cover all 17 constituencies in the Western Region by its conclusion on Wednesday.
Accompanying Mahama on this tour were key members of his campaign team, including Campaign Manager Joshua Alarbi and notable party figures such as Totobi Kwarkyi, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and Julius Debrah.
A Call for Renewal
John Dramani Mahama’s visit to the Western Region underscores his commitment to addressing critical issues affecting Ghana’s petroleum sector and broader economy. With a focus on combating corruption, restoring investor confidence, and tackling pressing social concerns, Mahama aims to position an NDC-led administration as a catalyst for national renewal.
As Ghana faces mounting challenges in its energy sector and beyond, the former president’s proposals offer a vision for revitalization—one that hinges on transparency, urgency, and strategic action. Whether this vision resonates with voters remains to be seen as the nation approaches its next electoral cycle.
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