President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned a new Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) transport vessel belonging to Sahara Group, describing it as a major step toward strengthening Ghana’s energy supply chain.
The vessel, christened MT Asharami Ghana, was commissioned on Thursday during a ceremony in South Korea as part of efforts to enhance the transportation and distribution of LPG in Ghana and across West Africa.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama said the project represents more than the addition of a ship to the global fleet, noting that it strengthens the infrastructure supporting the international LPG supply chain.
He explained that countries like Ghana still depend partly on LPG imports to meet domestic demand, making improved shipping capacity essential for ensuring reliable supply, stabilising prices, and diversifying energy sources.
The President noted that Ghana currently produces about 50 percent of its LPG requirements locally, with the remaining demand met through imports. He said the addition of the vessel would improve the capacity to transport LPG safely and efficiently at scale, ensuring reliable access for households, businesses, and industries.
Mr. Mahama also highlighted the role of LPG in the transition to cleaner energy, noting that it provides a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fuels such as charcoal, firewood and kerosene, while helping to reduce indoor air pollution and deforestation.
He commended Sahara Group and its partners for investing in energy infrastructure that supports regional development and strengthens West Africa’s energy logistics network.
The commissioning of the vessel forms part of broader efforts to expand LPG infrastructure and improve energy security across Ghana and the wider West African region.
