President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has mandated the Ministry of Finance to allocate GHC200 million to compensate communities affected by the first phase of the Jomoro Petroleum Hub Development project.
This directive was announced during a sod-cutting ceremony in Nawuli, within the Jomoro Municipality of the Western Region.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo expressed unwavering confidence that the project would help resolve significant challenges facing Ghana’s energy sector, instilling trust in its potential.
The Jomoro Petroleum Hub is envisioned as a premier integrated petroleum complex designed to enhance both upstream and downstream segments of Africa’s oil and gas industry.
The 20,000-acre development will feature refineries, petrochemical plants, storage tanks, and other infrastructure, aiming to revolutionize the continent’s petrochemical sector.
By 2030, the project is expected to generate $1.56 billion in export taxes, boost Ghana’s GDP by 70%, and create more than 780,000 jobs.
However, some local landowners, particularly the Coalition of Concerned Nzema People, have voiced dissatisfaction with the land acquisition process. They have cited inadequate compensation, lack of consultation, and concerns about the environmental impact of the project. These issues have led to tensions and protests in the affected communities.
President Akufo-Addo reiterated his assurance that GHC200 million would be released to address these concerns, stating, “The chiefs and people of Jomoro have generously offered their lands for the development and enhancement of these vital projects, ensuring the audience of the project’s secure execution.”
In recognition of their contribution and with deep appreciation, I have instructed the Ministry of Finance to release an initial two hundred million Ghana cedis to commence the payment of compensation for the affected lands as a first step towards discharging our liabilities to the affected communities.”
Herbert Krapa, the Minister of State for Energy, expressed profound optimism about the project’s transformative impact on Ghana’s energy sector, fostering a sense of hope in the audience.
“Establishing this petroleum hub marks a significant leap forward for Ghana’s energy sector.
I extend my sincerest appreciation to you, Mr. President, for your foresight and to all contributors for their efforts to achieve this outstanding milestone.
Through collaboration, I am confident that our shared vision of Ghana emerging as a premier energy producer will soon become a reality,” Krapa said.
Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko and Municipal Chief Executive Luisa Iris Adey assured the project would be conducted with complete security and support.
“Mr. President, I offer you this assurance: the Western Regional Coordinating Council and the Security Council will provide the requisite security and support to guarantee the successful execution of this project, realizing the transformative impact we envision for Ghana.
Consequently, individuals whose interests are adverse to Jomoro’s development are free to relocate, as we unequivocally support this project and its objectives,” Darko stated.
