President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned the Sahara LPG Vessel MT Asharami Ghana in the Republic of Korea, strengthening infrastructure for the global Liquefied Petroleum Gas supply chain.
The President commissioned the state-of-the-art, dual-fuel, fully refrigerated LPG carrier on Thursday at a ceremony in South Korea.
President Mahama, at the commissioning ceremony, stated that the occasion represents more than the launch of a vessel, noting that it is a substantial milestone in strengthening the infrastructure that underpins the global LPG supply chain.
He explained that for countries such as Ghana and many across Africa that rely partly on LPG imports to complement domestic production, the expansion of global shipping capacity is essential.
The President stated that it enhances supply security, improves reliability, stabilizes pricing through more efficient logistics, and creates opportunities to diversify supply sources across international markets.
He disclosed that Ghana produces locally about 50% of LPG requirements but still relies on imports for the other 50% of local consumption.
“While Ghana produces locally about 50% of our LPG requirements, we still rely on imports for the other 50% of local consumption,” President Mahama said.
The President stated that the vessel, through the West Africa Gas Limited Energy initiative, represents a strategic addition to a growing fleet designed to support the evolving energy needs of the region.
He explained that its deployment substantially expands LPG transport capacity and signals a new chapter in regional energy logistics, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening access to reliable and cleaner energy across West Africa and the African continent.
President Mahama noted that LPG plays a vital role in the transition to cleaner energy sources, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels such as charcoal, firewood, and kerosene for millions of households across Africa.
He stated that its wider adoption contributes to improved public health and environmental sustainability by reducing deforestation and indoor air pollution.
The President explained that Ghana recognizes the transformative potential of LPG in supporting socio-economic development, from powering industries to improving household energy access in both rural and urban communities.
He stated that LPG has become an important component of Ghana’s broader energy strategy.
President Mahama commended the leadership, technical expertise, and strategic foresight demonstrated by Sahara Group, WAGL Energy, and all partners involved in bringing the project to fruition.
“Your commitment demonstrates what can be achieved when innovation, investment, and collaboration come together to bridge infrastructure gaps, deepen regional markets, and unlock sustainable economic opportunities across Africa,” the President said.
He noted that the commissioning underscores the enduring value of international cooperation, reflecting the strength of partnerships between Africa and global partners grounded in mutual respect, shared prosperity, and collective commitment to sustainable development.
President Mahama stated that the vessel will help ensure that businesses, industries, and households can depend on modern energy services that support economic growth and improve quality of life.
He described the MT Asharami Ghana as a symbol of progress that should inspire further investment, innovation, and collaboration across Africa’s energy value chain.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
