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LATEST ARTICLES
Malawi: Gov’t To Import 50 MW Of Power From Mozambique In February 2026 To Ease Load Shedding
Malawi will, from February 2026, import 50 MW of power from neighboring Mozambique to ease the crippling load shedding that has battered households and businesses, Minister for Natural Resources, Energy and Mining, Hon. Dr. Jean Mathanga, has announced.
The minister revealed this during an inspection tour of the Phombeya Substation in Balaka, where she confirmed that the Mozambique–Malawi Interconnector Project (MOMA) is now in its final stages of completion.
According to her, the project is now firmly backed financially, following strong assurances from the Minister of Finance and the Reserve Bank of Malawi that the required monthly payments will be prioritized.
“This 50 MW will go a long for a long way in easing the burden of load shedding that Malawians are experiencing. I have also received firm guarantees that the US$5 million monthly obligation needed to access this power will be honored without disruption,” said Dr. Mathanga.
She emphasized that energy is the backbone of economic growth, and the government is treating the MOMA project as a national economic lifeline, not just an electricity deal.
The importation of the 50 MW is expected to stabilize Malawi’s power grid, support industries, revive struggling businesses, and restore productivity lost due to persistent blackouts.
ESCOM Acting Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Sinosi Maliano, confirmed that the 50 MW supply has already been secured under an existing Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Mozambique.
“This is an immediate and realistic gain. While discussions for higher imports have taken place, the current 50 MW is guaranteed and will make a tangible difference in reducing load shedding nationwide,” said Maliano.
The MOMA project connects the Matambo Substation in Mozambique to the Phombeya Substation in Malawi through 218 kilometers of high-voltage transmission lines, marking one of the most strategic power investments in Malawi’s history.
Once operational, the interconnector is expected to boost national energy security, strengthen investor confidence, and accelerate industrial growth, especially in manufacturing, tourism, and mining.
The project also signals renewed momentum in Malawi’s regional energy integration and long-term power stability strategy, bringing fresh hope to citizens who have endured years of unreliable electricity supply.
As February 2026 draws closer, all eyes are now on ESCOM, the Ministry of Energy, the Treasury, and the Reserve Bank to translate these assurances into uninterrupted power — and finally turn the page on Malawi’s long-standing load shedding crisis.
Morocco: British Firm Pushes First Gas Through Tendrara Project System
British company Sound Energy PLC has announced that the Tendrara gas project in Morocco’s Oriental region has reached a significant milestone, with first gas entering the field’s gas gathering system.
This marks the start of commissioning activities for the TE-5 Horst development, the project’s production concession, in preparation for long-term gas supply to the micro-LNG plant.
Sound Energy, which holds a 20% stake in the Tendrara production concession, said the final component of the gas gathering system was completed on November 28. The concession is operated by Mana Energy Ltd, which owns a 55% stake.
“After installation, gas was safely and successfully flowed from the TE-6 production well to commence the commissioning of the GGS,” the company said, referring to the gas gathering system.
The company noted that the micro-LNG plant, designed by Italfluid Geoenergy, will operate and maintain the facility and ensure LNG delivery to Moroccan distributor Afriquia Gaz under a 10-year gas sales agreement. The contract guarantees the purchase of 100 million cubic meters of gas per year at a price indexed to European and U.S. benchmarks.
Sound Energy thanked all project partners, including the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) and key contractors, for their support.
Earlier this year, the company reaffirmed its growing interest in Morocco’s gas sector and suggested that potential undiscovered reserves in the east could exceed 20 trillion cubic feet.
Sound Energy CEO Majid Shafiq described the development as an important step toward supplying gas to Moroccan industrial consumers. “I look forward to the full commissioning of the micro-LNG facility and delivery of sales gas in the coming months,” he said, calling it an “exciting period” for the company.
Morocco has been partnering with international energy firms to diversify its supply sources and strengthen its energy sovereignty. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Energy launched major international tenders to develop the country’s first LNG infrastructure phase.
US President Reopens Alaska’s Arctic To Oil Drilling
United States President Donald Trump has removed legislative protections introduced during the Biden administration that restricted oil and gas exploration in Alaska, including in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and on federal lands across the state, Oilprice.com reported, citing Bloomberg.
The changes, made through several congressional measures under the Congressional Review Act, quickly drew criticism from environmental groups.
The president’s move was “a direct attack on public input, science, and responsible stewardship of public lands, wildlife, water, Indigenous communities, and rural economies,” the National Wildlife Federation said.
The Brooks Range Coalition added that the measures “leave Alaska’s rural communities, hunters, and Tribal governments with fewer protections at a time when climate change and resource pressures are rapidly intensifying.”
Trump’s actions follow an earlier administration decision to reopen more of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil and gas drilling.
In October, the Interior Department announced it would restore the full 1.5-million-acre Coastal Plain to leasing and reinstate previously canceled leases held by the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority.
The move represents the most aggressive push to expand exploration in Alaska’s far north since the original Trump-era lease sale in 2021.
Alaska remains one of the United States’ major legacy oil-producing regions. Production peaked at 2 million barrels per day in 1988 but now accounts for barely 3% of national output.
High costs, aging fields, and limited leasing opportunities have slowed investment for decades.
However, with the U.S. prioritizing energy security and Asian buyers showing renewed interest in long-term crude and LNG supply, Washington appears poised to place a new bet on Alaska’s North Slope.
Earlier this year, the Trump administration also moved to boost crude oil production from the National Petroleum Reserve by removing restrictions and opening 82% of the area to new drilling.
Nigeria: Consumer Protection Commission Seals Ikeja Headquarters For Violating Consumers’ Rights
Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on Thursday sealed the headquarters of Ikeja Electric (IE) for continuous violations of consumer rights, specifically for failing to comply with directives issued by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the FCCPC.
NERC had issued a binding decision directing Ikeja Electric to unbundle a Maximum Demand account into twenty non-Maximum Demand accounts to recognise each of the nineteen residential units—and a service point owned by a complainant—as separate customer units and to provide the required metering and connection.
However, Ikeja Electric refused to carry out the decision.
As a result of this non-compliance, the complainant has been without electricity supply for more than two and a half years, despite paying all charges requested by Ikeja Electric and meeting every obligation.
The prolonged outage has prevented the complainant from putting the nineteen residential units to use.
According to the Commission, it engaged Ikeja Electric several times and notified the company of the complaint and the outstanding NERC decision.
“In April 2025, we issued a directive that set out the steps required and the timelines for compliance. No action was taken.
“On 2 October 2025, the Commission issued a Compliance Notice requiring full compliance within seven business days. The company still did not comply,” the FCCPC said in a statement.
Providing the legal basis for its action, the FCCPC cited Section 17 of its establishing Act, which sets out the Commission’s functions, including resolving complaints, issuing directives, and taking enforcement action where breaches persist.
Section 18 empowers the Commission to ensure compliance with the Act, including taking enforcement steps such as sealing premises where an undertaking’s conduct has created or prolonged consumer harm.
Section 124 prohibits harassment, coercion, undue influence, or unfair tactics in the supply of goods or services. Withholding or frustrating access to a service in ways that cause avoidable hardship falls under this prohibition.
Section 150 allows the Commission to issue a Compliance Notice specifying the steps an undertaking must take to remedy a contravention and to escalate action where the undertaking ignores the notice. Section 155 makes it an offence for an undertaking to infringe consumer rights.
Together, these provisions provide the statutory basis for Thursday’s action. Ikeja Electric’s sustained refusal to carry out a lawful regulatory decision—combined with the prolonged deprivation of electricity to nineteen residential units—meets the threshold for intervention.
“Sealing this facility is a proportionate enforcement measure taken only after repeated engagement and several opportunities for voluntary compliance.
The seal will remain in place until Ikeja Electric complies fully with the directives issued by both NERC and the FCCPC and provides written evidence of that compliance,” the FCCPC said.
The Commission reaffirmed that consumers are entitled to fair treatment and timely access to essential services, and it will continue to enforce the law to protect these rights and ensure service providers meet their obligations.
According to the Commission, it engaged Ikeja Electric several times and notified the company of the complaint and the outstanding NERC decision.
“In April 2025, we issued a directive that set out the steps required and the timelines for compliance. No action was taken.
“On 2 October 2025, the Commission issued a Compliance Notice requiring full compliance within seven business days. The company still did not comply,” the FCCPC said in a statement.
Providing the legal basis for its action, the FCCPC cited Section 17 of its establishing Act, which sets out the Commission’s functions, including resolving complaints, issuing directives, and taking enforcement action where breaches persist.
Section 18 empowers the Commission to ensure compliance with the Act, including taking enforcement steps such as sealing premises where an undertaking’s conduct has created or prolonged consumer harm.
Section 124 prohibits harassment, coercion, undue influence, or unfair tactics in the supply of goods or services. Withholding or frustrating access to a service in ways that cause avoidable hardship falls under this prohibition.
Section 150 allows the Commission to issue a Compliance Notice specifying the steps an undertaking must take to remedy a contravention and to escalate action where the undertaking ignores the notice. Section 155 makes it an offence for an undertaking to infringe consumer rights.
Together, these provisions provide the statutory basis for Thursday’s action. Ikeja Electric’s sustained refusal to carry out a lawful regulatory decision—combined with the prolonged deprivation of electricity to nineteen residential units—meets the threshold for intervention.
“Sealing this facility is a proportionate enforcement measure taken only after repeated engagement and several opportunities for voluntary compliance.
The seal will remain in place until Ikeja Electric complies fully with the directives issued by both NERC and the FCCPC and provides written evidence of that compliance,” the FCCPC said.
The Commission reaffirmed that consumers are entitled to fair treatment and timely access to essential services, and it will continue to enforce the law to protect these rights and ensure service providers meet their obligations.
First International Symposium On Artificial Intelligence And Nuclear Energy Held In Vienna
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has hosted the first International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Nuclear Energy in Vienna, Austria.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the development and application of AI technologies.
Delivering remarks at the opening session, Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev noted that AI development is of paramount importance as a key driver of technological progress in Russia.
He outlined Rosatom’s extensive experience in the systematic and integrated deployment of AI technologies across the nuclear industry.
These experiences, best practices, and achievements were showcased at the Russian exhibition booth, organised on the sidelines of the symposium.
Rosatom’s Director of Information and Digital Technologies, Evgeny Abakumov, speaking at the booth, emphasised that the corporation’s work spans predictive analytics, machine vision, large language models, and other AI tools used to address complex technical challenges.
“Today, AI-driven data centres are concentrated in a limited number of hubs. However, the rapid global response to AI development is reshaping this landscape. New digital corridors are expected to emerge in new regions, including Africa,” he said.
Africa’s digital adoption is increasing rapidly, outpacing the global average, yet the continent’s data-centre capacity remains below one percent of global capacity.
Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa are becoming key digital hubs, with South Africa already accounting for more than half of Africa’s capacity.
The growth of AI-driven data centres in Africa will require reliable and sustainable energy sources.
By expanding dependable energy supply, African nations can build the digital infrastructure needed to support their rapidly growing economies and populations.
Ghana: PURC Justifies Electricity And Water Tariff Hikes — Says Utility Service Providers Need $320m To Cut Losses
Ghana’s economic regulator for electricity and water, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), has justified its recent approval of a 9.86% and 15.92% upward adjustment in electricity and water tariffs, respectively, set to take effect from January 1 to the end of March 2026.
The Commission’s decision has attracted criticism from sections of the public, including the Trade Union Congress (TUC), which argues that the increases will further burden already struggling Ghanaian workers and has called for an immediate reversal.
However, briefing Parliament on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, on the rationale behind the tariff hikes, Acting Executive Secretary of PURC, Dr. Shafic Suleman, stated that the utility service providers will require a capital investment of $320 million to reduce distribution and commercial losses within their networks.
He suggested that the amount could be mobilised through public-private partnerships (PPPs) to strengthen the operational efficiency of the utilities.
Dr. Suleman explained that while quarterly tariff reviews are influenced by factors such as inflation, exchange rate movements, and the hydro-thermal generation mix, the latest adjustment falls under the multi-year tariff framework, which considers the investment needs of the utilities over a three-to-five-year period.
“The recent upward adjustment is a multi-year tariff and not the quarterly one,” he clarified, adding that the Commission would soon publish a decision note outlining the factors considered in the review.
Responding to concerns from Members of Parliament (MPs) about inadequate stakeholder engagement, Dr. Suleman emphasised that the PURC had held consultations in 10 regions, engaged the Parliamentary Committees on Energy and Sanitation, and planned further meetings with the leadership of both the Majority and Minority Caucuses.
Some MPs, however, raised concerns about the poor quality of services delivered by the utility companies, citing frequent interruptions in water supply and the issuance of high monthly bills despite prolonged periods of non-flow in many households.
Dr. Suleman assured Parliament that the PURC remained committed to balancing the interests of consumers and service providers while ensuring sustainable investment in the utilities sector.
Ghana: Tema Oil Refinery Nears First Crude Run After Major Turnaround Maintenance
Ghana’s premier refinery, Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Limited—once widely viewed as a dying national asset—is now on a path to full recovery, with staff confidence restored, finances improved, and turnaround maintenance completed.
The first parcel of crude for processing is expected to be announced soon.
Addressing journalists in Tema at a one-day capacity-building programme organised by Energy News Africa Ltd in collaboration with the Tema Regional Ghana Journalists Association, TOR’s Managing Director, Edmond Kombat Esq., painted a gloomy picture of the refinery’s mismanagement under previous leadership, which resulted in significant indebtedness.
With President Mahama’s “reset agenda” in mind, Mr. Kombat explained that he and his team began with a fishbowl analysis of TOR, breaking down every aspect of its operations to determine whether the refinery could realistically be salvaged and how to unlock its full potential.
This diagnostic exercise was followed by stakeholder mapping to identify key allies and obstacles, ensuring the President’s vision to save jobs and revive the plant could be effectively implemented.
One of the most pressing problems uncovered, he noted, was deep-seated staff bitterness after years without promotion—a situation that threatened productivity and unity.
Management therefore invited workers to petition for long-overdue promotions. A committee chaired by Mr. Kombat vetted more than 300 cases, with over 250 employees found deserving and subsequently elevated—an action that quickly restored calm and boosted morale.
“Immediately, it brought a lot of calm amongst the staff,” he said, describing the impact of the exercise.
To build a shared revival strategy, Mr. Kombat held departmental engagements across TOR’s 42 units, listening to staff concerns and ideas on how to “bring this refinery back,” before consolidating their contributions into a workable roadmap.
With government finances constrained under the IMF programme, TOR relied on internally generated funds and strict cash management, pursuing long-outstanding receivables and negotiating payment plans with debtors to sustain operations while critical maintenance was carried out.
He highlighted that a major revenue boost has come from extending loading hours—effectively introducing a partial 24-hour economy for terminal operations with the support of regulators and security agencies.
Instead of closing at 5 p.m., loading often continues until 11 p.m. or midnight, significantly increasing cash inflows.
Mr. Kombat also noted that management implemented strict accountability in product handling, ensuring that companies bringing in, for example, 10,000 litres received exactly the same volume back—a reform that rebuilt trust and turned satisfied clients into ambassadors for TOR.
These reforms, he said, have already yielded visible results: in recent months, TOR’s storage tanks have remained full, at times leaving no space for additional products—a striking turnaround from years of underutilisation.
He added that disciplined management and prudent use of internally generated funds enabled the refinery to complete a full turnaround maintenance programme on its Crude Distillation Unit without taking on new loans, despite years of unaudited accounts that made external financing nearly impossible.
The revival has also had a significant employment impact.
TOR, he said, engaged hundreds of technicians for the maintenance process, later absorbing many into permanent roles. Additional security and technical staff have also been recruited to fill vacancies left by departing engineers.
The refinery now supports roughly a thousand workers, as well as dependants who benefit from free medical care—safeguarding livelihoods that would have been lost had the plant collapsed.
Although Mr. Kombat acknowledges that “the refinery has not been salvaged” yet, test runs and system flushing have been completed. Management expects a flare-up and stabilisation phase before an official commissioning ceremony marking TOR’s full return to service.
He stressed that with plans to connect a new furnace and ramp up capacity toward 45,000 barrels per day, TOR’s revival is increasingly seen as a testament to how disciplined management, union resolve, and strategic planning can rescue a once-dying refinery and set it on a path to financial and operational renewal.
Ghana: NPA Commissions Two-Unit Staff Bungalow For Vakpo Senior High School
Ghana’s petroleum downstream regulator, National Petroleum Authority (NPA), in collaboration with Vakpo Senior High School and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), has commissioned a two-unit semi-detached staff bungalow for the school.
The project, supported by the Authority, forms part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, which is expected to ease accommodation challenges faced by teachers and staff of Vakpo Senior High School.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Chief Executive of the NPA, Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo (Esq.), by the Director of Business Development, Mr. Godwin Konu, he noted that the Authority is proud to be associated with the project and remains confident that the new facility will significantly improve the living and working conditions of teachers in the school.
“Teachers perform at their best when they are well-supported and motivated. It is the conviction of the Board and Management of the NPA that this facility will enhance the living and working conditions of the teachers, enabling them to deliver quality tuition and guidance to the students of this great institution. The Authority recognizes the importance of providing decent accommodation for teachers,” he said.
Mr. Tameklo, in reaffirming the authority’s commitment to educational developments, stated that promoting education remains close to his heart and the NPA will continue to support such projects to help improve learning in the region and in Ghana as a whole.
“Once again, the NPA is proud to be associated with this laudable project. As a proud son of this region, my commitment to the advancement of education here and across the country remains unwavering. The NPA is thus honoured to partner with the school and the PTA on this important initiative, and we look forward to continued collaboration in future endeavours,” he said.
In his address, the Headmaster of Vakpo Senior High School, Togbe Foe Tsali II, expressed gratitude to the NPA and the PTA for their commitment to improving the welfare of the staff and believes the bungalow will ease the accommodation conditions of the teachers.
“This facility will bring relief to our teachers who have struggled with accommodation issues for many years. We are grateful to the NPA and the PTA for their support and commitment in prioritizing staff welfare,” he said.
The commissioning of the staff bungalow reaffirms the National Petroleum Authority’s commitment to support national development beyond its mandate in regulating the downstream petroleum sector in Ghana.
The Authority remains committed to strengthening its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives by partnering with institutions and communities across Ghana to leave a lasting impact.
The NPA team included the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Maria Oquaye, the Director of Quality Assurance, Mr. Setsoafia K. Agenoto, the Director of Consumer Services, Mrs. Eunice Budu-Nyarko, and other staff members.
“Once again, the NPA is proud to be associated with this laudable project. As a proud son of this region, my commitment to the advancement of education here and across the country remains unwavering. The NPA is thus honoured to partner with the school and the PTA on this important initiative, and we look forward to continued collaboration in future endeavours,” he said.
In his address, the Headmaster of Vakpo Senior High School, Togbe Foe Tsali II, expressed gratitude to the NPA and the PTA for their commitment to improving the welfare of the staff and believes the bungalow will ease the accommodation conditions of the teachers.
“This facility will bring relief to our teachers who have struggled with accommodation issues for many years. We are grateful to the NPA and the PTA for their support and commitment in prioritizing staff welfare,” he said.
The commissioning of the staff bungalow reaffirms the National Petroleum Authority’s commitment to support national development beyond its mandate in regulating the downstream petroleum sector in Ghana.
The Authority remains committed to strengthening its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives by partnering with institutions and communities across Ghana to leave a lasting impact.
The NPA team included the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Maria Oquaye, the Director of Quality Assurance, Mr. Setsoafia K. Agenoto, the Director of Consumer Services, Mrs. Eunice Budu-Nyarko, and other staff members. ExxonMobil, Aramco Sign Deal To Upgrade Samref Refinery And Petrochemicals
US oil and gas supermajor ExxonMobil, Aramco, and Samref have signed a Venture Framework Agreement (VFA) to explore a major upgrade of the Samref refinery in Yanbu and expand it into an integrated petrochemical complex.
The proposed project involves evaluating capital investments to upgrade and diversify production, focusing on high-quality distillates that reduce emissions and high-performance chemicals. The partnership will also explore opportunities to improve the refinery’s operations and reduce emissions through an integrated emissions-reduction strategy.
Mohammed Y. Al Qahtani, Aramco Downstream President, said the project marks a step in the companies’ long-term strategic collaboration and reinforces their commitment to advancing downstream value creation and liquids-to-chemicals strategy.
Jack Williams, Exxon Mobil Corporation Senior Vice President, said the project aligns with their strategy to grow high-value products that meet evolving energy needs and contribute to a lower-emission future.
The companies will start a preliminary front-end engineering and design phase for the project, aiming to maximize operational advantages, enhance Samref’s competitiveness, and meet growing demand for high-quality petrochemical products in Saudi Arabia.
The project is subject to market conditions, regulatory approvals, and final investment decisions by Aramco and ExxonMobil.
Samref is a joint venture between Aramco and Mobil Yanbu Refining Company Inc., a subsidiary of Exxon Mobil Corporation, with a current capacity to process over 400,000 barrels of crude oil per day.
Namibia: AfDB Approves $10 Million To Catalyse Namibia’s Large Green Hydrogen Project
The African Development Bank has approved a $10 million loan to Hyphen Hydrogen Energy, a Namibian green hydrogen development company, to support a green ammonia project valued at over $10 billion.
The project has the potential to position Namibia as a pioneer in the global green hydrogen economy.
The loan, sourced from the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA), will support front-end engineering design studies for solar and wind generation, battery energy storage systems, electrolyser capacity, and desalination infrastructure. This will de-risk the project and attract the financing required for its realisation.
SEFA is a multi-donor Special Fund that provides catalytic finance to unlock private sector investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. SEFA offers technical assistance and concessional finance instruments to remove market barriers, build a pipeline of projects, and improve the risk-return profile of individual investments.
The project is poised to leverage Namibia’s world-class solar and wind energy resources. The first phase includes 3.75 GW of renewable energy generation, battery storage, 1.5 GW of electrolyser capacity, and supporting infrastructure such as desalination facilities, pipelines, transmission lines, and enhanced port facilities—all developed to high environmental and social standards.
Once completed, the project is projected to produce 2 million tons of green ammonia annually for export to key markets, while contributing to local economic development under a comprehensive socio-economic development plan embedded in the project’s 40-year concession agreement.
The project will avert annual emissions of 5 million tons of CO2—the equivalent of removing over 1 million cars from the road, deploy 7.5 gigawatts of renewable energy generation capacity, more than 10 times Namibia’s current installed capacity, and
supply 3 million liters of clean water through desalination daily to the water-scarce region of Lüderitz in Southern Namibia
Moono Mupotola, African Development Bank Country Manager for Namibia and Deputy Director General for Southern Africa, said: “This is about far more than energy infrastructure. This is about demonstrating Africa’s capacity to lead the global energy transition, create quality jobs for our youth, and build prosperity while protecting our planet. Namibia is showing the world that Africa is not just participating in the green economy—we are defining it.”
Marco Raffinetti, CEO of Hyphen Hydrogen Energy, said: “The African Development Bank’s approval of this pre-investment facility represents a strong vote of confidence in Hyphen’s project and in Namibia’s ambitions to develop one of the world’s most transformative green hydrogen projects.”
Daniel Schroth, Director for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency at the African Development Bank, said: “SEFA’s intervention is catalytic. By supporting these essential pre-investment activities, we are unlocking billions in project financing. This is a strategic, high-impact development project.”
The project is expected to generate 15,000 construction jobs and 3,000 permanent positions, with 90% reserved for Namibian nationals and 20% targeting youth. The Hyphen project is viewed as a flagship of the government’s Southern Corridor Development Initiative and is expected to have a demonstration effect across Africa.
Ghana: Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor Earns PhD In Development Finance From Stellenbosch University In South Africa
South Africa–based University of Stellenbosch has conferred a PhD in Development Finance on Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, after he successfully defended his thesis, which focused on energy, foreign direct investment (FDI), and environmental sustainability, with notable publications in reputable journals.
The University conferred the PhD on him, along with other graduands, during its graduation ceremony on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
Hon. Jinapor’s thesis, titled Inclusive Growth and Environmental Quality: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa, examined three critical dimensions: the role of foreign direct investment and energy consumption in promoting inclusive economic growth; how institutions can mitigate the negative environmental effects of economic activities; and the potential of financial development and information and communications technology to enhance energy sufficiency in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
Using panel data from 2000 to 2019, his research provides relevant policy insights, demonstrating that SSA economies can achieve accelerated, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth—aligning with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Agenda 2030.
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor’s latest achievement adds to the many academic qualifications he has earned both locally and internationally.
He holds an MSc in Energy Economics, an MSc in Development Finance, an MBA in Marketing, and an MA in Economic Policy Management.
Beyond his political and academic pursuits, Hon. Jinapor has contributed significantly to Ghana’s energy sector, serving as Chairman of the Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organization and as a board member of the Electricity Company of Ghana.
He has also represented Ghana at various international conferences, including COP28 in Dubai, the IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, and the Mining Indaba in South Africa.
He holds an MSc in Energy Economics, an MSc in Development Finance, an MBA in Marketing, and an MA in Economic Policy Management.
Beyond his political and academic pursuits, Hon. Jinapor has contributed significantly to Ghana’s energy sector, serving as Chairman of the Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organization and as a board member of the Electricity Company of Ghana.
He has also represented Ghana at various international conferences, including COP28 in Dubai, the IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, and the Mining Indaba in South Africa. Nigeria: NNPC E&P Limited Hits Record 355,000 Barrels Per Day Production — Highest In 36 Years
Nigeria’s National Petroleum Company Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), the upstream subsidiary of NNPC Limited, has achieved a record production level of 355,000 barrels of oil per day, marking its highest daily output since 1989.
This milestone was confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday by NNPC Limited’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, who noted that the achievement represents the company’s biggest output in 36 years and signals renewed momentum in Nigeria’s upstream recovery efforts.
According to NNPC Limited, average daily production increased by 52%, rising from 203,000 barrels per day in 2023 to 312,000 barrels per day in 2025.
The company emphasised that the record growth was not coincidental but driven by a clear strategy anchored on operational excellence, strong asset management, and structured field development.
Speaking on the achievement, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, stated that the milestone is proof that Nigeria’s energy revival “is not a dream; it is already happening.”
“By showing its ability to exceed its own production benchmarks, NEPL confirms that the essential building blocks for scaling national output are being firmly established. The accomplishment signals that the machinery of production—equipment, processes, capabilities, and partnerships—can be driven with commercial discipline to produce real and positive outcomes,” Ojulari said.
He added that the achievement reinforces confidence both nationally and internationally, assuring partners and investors that Nigeria is committed to reaffirming its role as a dependable energy supplier.
For his part, Udy Ntia, Executive Vice President, Upstream, said the milestone goes beyond the 355,000 bpd figure.
“In a sector where shortcuts can yield short-term wins but long-term damage, NEPL is making a different point: sustainable progress must rest on responsible operations. This ensures that scaling production does not compromise worker safety, community wellbeing, or environmental protection. It reinforces a shift away from extraction at any cost toward sustainable value creation—a core requirement for any modern energy company seeking global relevance,” Ntia said.
Nicolas Foucart, Managing Director of NEPL, also noted that the company’s record-setting performance reflects the broader transformation taking place across NNPC Limited.
“This is a story shaped by leadership that charts a clear course; by partnerships built on alignment and accountability; and by a workforce whose hard work is turning goals into measurable progress. Our people, our processes, and our principles are the real engines behind this success. We are building for tomorrow, not just celebrating today,” Foucart stated.
He added: “For Nigerians, this achievement means far more than increased barrels; it translates into greater national revenue, stronger energy security, and a more resilient economic foundation. NEPL has not only produced more hydrocarbons; it has reignited belief in what Nigeria’s energy sector can achieve with the right systems, culture, and dedication.”
Ghana: Energy News Africa Organises Maiden Capacity-Building Training For Journalists In Tema
Ghana-based Energy News Africa Ltd, one of Africa’s leading energy news portals, in collaboration with the Tema Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has held its maiden capacity-building training at Hotel Marjorie ‘Y’ in Tema Community 6.
The programme aimed to equip journalists in the Tema Region with the skills needed for effective energy sector reporting in the era of social media and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The training, themed: “Leveraging Social Media and AI for Effective Energy Reporting: Trends, Tools and Best Practices,” brought together participants from the print, television, and radio sectors.
In his welcome address, Mr. Michael Dewornu, Tema Regional Chairman of the GJA, commended the Executive Director of Energy News Africa Ltd, Mr. Michael Creg Afful, for agreeing to organise the programme in Tema for the first time after holding three previous sessions in Accra, the capital of Ghana.
He encouraged Mr. Afful to continue collaborating with the GJA so that more of such training programmes could be organised to equip reporters in the region, noting that Tema hosts strategic power and petroleum installations.
Mr. Dewornu praised the journalists for their participation and urged them to apply the knowledge gained to improve their reportage.
In his presentation, Mr. Michael Creg Afful, Executive Director of Energy News Africa Ltd, outlined the structure of Ghana’s power and petroleum sectors, emphasising the need for journalists to understand the mandates and functions of each player in the value chain.
According to him, when journalists are familiar with these roles, they will know which institution or agency to contact for clarification, thereby avoiding the publication or broadcast of inaccurate information.
Mr. Afful urged journalists not to rush to publish stories, stressing the importance of thorough verification before publication.
He added, “Since we started, we have ensured that we remain a professional platform.”
Ing. Jabesh Amissah-Arthur, Managing Partner of Arthur Energy Advisors and Chairman of the training programme, said it is sometimes disheartening for energy experts to listen to media discussions where issues are often mixed up.
Ing. Amissah-Arthur, who also serves as Board Chairman of the Volta River Authority, noted that Ghana’s energy sector is a vital component of the national economy. He added that the media serves as the stream of information; therefore, information disseminated on the sector must be accurate to promote transparency and drive sustainable development.
Mr. Charles Wundengba, Chief Executive Officer of Wundef Media in Obuasi, spoke on the theme and presented statistics on social media usage and the adoption of AI tools by journalists and media organisations to enhance their work.
He encouraged the media to make effective use of AI and social media to market their work and generate revenue, explaining that audiences are more likely to rewatch a 30-second video than read lengthy articles or watch full television news bulletins.
He noted that AI has become a permanent feature of the media landscape, and journalists must learn to use it responsibly rather than avoiding it due to fear of losing creative skills, despite some negative impacts AI may pose.
Mr. Edmond Kombat, Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), provided an overview of the refinery’s operations, highlighting gains made this year and plans to restore the facility to full operation.
Mr. Roger Akrong, Chief Information Security Officer at the Information Security Directorate of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), representing the Managing Director, also delivered a presentation on social media and AI, outlining both their benefits and risks.
Senegal Plans To Nationalise Kosmos-Run Yakaar-Teranga Gas Project
Senegal plans to nationalise the Yakaar-Teranga gas project, operated by Kosmos Energy and estimated to be one of the world’s largest discoveries in recent years, with a view to meeting domestic gas needs, the country’s energy minister said.
Kosmos Energy, which has a 90% stake, became the operator of the Yakaar-Teranga gas field in 2023 after BP decided to exit. Kosmos’ licence for the field runs out in July 2026, a company spokesperson said when asked about the minister’s comments.
State-controlled company Petrosen holds the remaining 10% in the field, which is estimated to hold around 25 trillion cubic feet of recoverable gas, even more than the Leviathan field offshore Israel, which has around 22 tcf of recoverable gas.
“It’s a project we have operators for, and we want to nationalise it and give Petrosen, which has the expertise, the opportunity to develop this project to meet domestic gas needs… without ruling out the possibility of exporting,” Energy Minister Birame Souleye Diop said at a conference in the town of Diamniadio on Tuesday.
Petrosen, which holds a 10% stake in the project, said last year it expected a final investment decision in 2025. So far no decision has been made public.
“Since discovering natural gas at Yakaar-Teranga in 2017 and following BP’s departure from the licence in 2023, Kosmos Energy has been working hard with Petrosen to find a suitable partner and agree a commercially viable development concept. The current Yakaar-Teranga licence expires in July 2026,” Kosmos said.
Kosmos and Petrosen, as well as BP, are also shareholders in the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim liquefied natural gas project offshore Senegal and Mauritania, which is estimated to hold 15 trillion cubic feet of potentially recoverable gas and which loaded its first cargo in April.