The government will start the Western Region petroleum hub project with just 5,000 hectares instead of acquiring 20,000 hectares from local communities.
Speaking to the Western Regional House of Chiefs at the Jubilee House on Wednesday, President John Dramani Mahama said the smaller land size would be enough to begin the project.
“We believe that 5,000 hectares can comfortably start the project, and then we can acquire any other land as and when we need it instead of tearing down 20,000 hectares of the land of our people,” the president said.
The president stated that he has ordered for the renegotiation of the land deal with landowners.
“The government will return excess land already taken and pay compensation to affected property owners,” he added.
The petroleum hub project aims to create jobs for young people in the Western Region and attract investors to the oil and gas sector.
The facility will serve as a dedicated oil and gas services centre in Takoradi.
The project has faced delays, with land acquisition being one of the main problems. The original plan to take 20,000 hectares created disputes with communities over compensation and land rights.
President Mahama also announced plans to build a manganese refinery in the Western Region to process raw manganese that Ghana currently exports.
“An alumina refinery will also be established to handle bauxite from Awaso and other mining areas,” he added.
He added that the government will set up modern agro-processing parks under the 24-hour economy program to support the region’s coconut, cocoa, oil palm, and rubber production.
“The Western Region holds immense potential to lead Ghana into a new era of industrialisation, economic diversification, and job creation,” he told the traditional leaders.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
