Sentuo offers fuel supply reassurance as NPA sees steady output through December

CBOD highlights the value of domestic refining, strengthening the case for sustained production and greater efficiency to support Ghanaian consumers

Sentuo Oil Refinery’s expected production through December 2026 offers a reassuring prospect for Ghana’s fuel supply, as the National Petroleum Authority expresses confidence in its operations and the Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors calls for stronger domestic refining.

The separate statements highlight a practical role for Sentuo in helping Ghana meet its petroleum needs locally, even as international market pressures continue to affect the prices motorists pay.

Speaking on JoyNews, NPA Chief Executive Godwin Kudzo Tameklo said: “We are confident that, from now until December, we will have consistent production from Sentuo.” JoyNews interview, published 18 September 2026

That outlook gives consumers and transport businesses a specific basis for confidence in expected domestic production during the remaining months of the year.

Local refining provides a supply buffer

CBOD Chief Executive Dr Patrick Kwaku Ofori has also recognised the supply-security benefits of having Sentuo and the Tema Oil Refinery operating within Ghana.

“Having the two in-country at least reduces the burden of product supply insecurity,” he told Citi News.

Ofori estimated that the two refineries could potentially meet between 25 and 30 per cent of national consumption, with imports supplying the remainder. The figure relates to their combined contribution, not Sentuo alone.

He called for increased capacity and improved efficiency so that a greater share of Ghana’s fuel requirements could be supplied domestically. Citi Newsroom, 16 September 2026

Read together, the remarks support a constructive industry outlook: consistent production at Sentuo would provide an important domestic contribution, while further improvements could strengthen Ghana’s ability to withstand disruptions in imported supplies.

For motorists, rising prices and fuel shortages are different concerns. A price increase does not, by itself, establish that fuel is unavailable. The NPA’s statement addresses expected refinery production, although it is not a guarantee against every possible supply disruption.

Ofori has cautioned that domestic refining does not automatically deliver cheaper fuel because refineries still purchase crude at internationally benchmarked prices. In a separate interview on September 17, he said immediate pump-price reductions arising from the refineries’ return were unlikely.

His criticism of the GH¢2-per-litre subsidy formed part of a broader argument for lasting consumer protection. He questioned the distribution of benefits from a blanket subsidy and advocated investment in public transport and an energy strategy extending beyond electoral cycles. He also warned that prolonged global supply constraints could affect Ghana.

These qualifications leave room for measured confidence in Sentuo’s contribution. Reliable local production can strengthen availability; improvements in efficiency can support affordability where savings are reflected in retail prices.

For Ghanaian consumers, the encouraging prospect is a steadier domestic source of fuel to complement imports. Sustaining Sentuo’s output and improving local refining would give Ghana a stronger foundation for dependable supply while the industry works towards better value at the pump.

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