President John Dramani Mahama is expected to perform the sod-cutting ceremony for Phase II of the Sentuo Oil Refinery Project on June 24, 2026, marking a major step in Ghana’s efforts to expand its petroleum refining capacity and strengthen its position as an energy hub in West Africa.
The announcement was made during the reception of Ghana’s first Jubilee Crude Oil cargo for refining at the Sentuo Oil Refinery in Tema.
The Phase II project will increase the refinery’s capacity from 40,000 barrels per day to 100,000 barrels per day and is expected to create thousands of jobs in construction, engineering, logistics and petroleum services.
Speaking at the event, Executive Chairman of Sentuo Oil Refinery, Ningquan Xu, said the expansion reflects Ghana’s commitment to adding value to its natural resources through local refining rather than exporting raw materials.
Mr. Xu also called on the government to support the construction of concrete roads within the Tema Heavy Industrial Area, particularly along the corridor from the VALCO Roundabout through the industrial enclave.
According to him, the existing roads are struggling to withstand the heavy traffic generated by fuel tankers, cargo trucks and other industrial vehicles operating in the area.
He said modern concrete roads would improve transportation, reduce logistics costs, increase productivity and make the industrial zone more attractive to investors.
Stakeholders believe the road project is critical to supporting the growing industrial activities in Tema and maximizing the benefits of major investments such as the Sentuo Refinery expansion.
The June 24 sod-cutting ceremony is expected to highlight both Ghana’s growing refining capacity and the need for infrastructure improvements to support long-term industrial growth.
