Let’s capitalize on Africa Oil Week to Build Local Capacity – Hubert Krampah

The reputable Africa Oil Week (AOW), the continent’s major energy event that seeks to drive industrialization, job creation, and wealth generation, is set to commence in Ghana from September 15 to the 18 2025.

At the official launch in Accra, the Minister of State responsible for Energy, Hubert Krampah, expressed the government’s enthusiasm about the conference moving to Ghana after thirty impactful years in South Africa. He assured the organisers of the government’s commitment to the success of the conference stating that the ministry would leverage government platforms to involve the private sector. He emphasised the role of the media in coordinating interviews and promoting Ghana’s efforts in the oil and gas sector.

“I assure you that Ghana is ready; Accra will be prepared to host this very important gathering,” he said.

Mr Krampah insisted that the increasing activity in the Petroleum Commission’s data room is a positive sign of growing interest in the energy sector, highlighting the need to address all fiscal matters in the sector effectively to remain competitive.

The minister further stated that the Petroleum Commission and other sector agencies must build domestic capacity in the oil and gas sector and leverage the conference to enhance profitability.

“We need to build more domestic capacity in this space; it is crucial that we work together to develop indigenous capacity, and we must take advantage of hosting this conference here,” he emphasised.

He expressed pride in the vision of Sankofa Events and AOW, insisting that the government is ready to support Africa Oil Week and that all stakeholders must leverage their expertise to ensure the conference’s success.

The Chief Executive Officer of Sankofa Events and Africa Oil Week (AOW), Paul Sinclair, remarked that the event aims to empower the private sector and ensure African participation in projects not merely capital inflow to enhance collective efforts for Africa’s energy security and prosperity.

Mr Sinclair opined that the event in Accra is expected to attract world-class participants, maximizing opportunities for Ghana and West Africa. The AOW aims to foster collaboration rather than competition among firms in the sector.

He further noted that participants from previous years included indigenous companies, service providers, and international operators intending to showcase Africa’s best—from energy capacity to media advancements.

The CEO of the Petroleum Commission, Egbert Faibille Junior, enumerated some challenges and reforms facing Ghana’s oil sector, insisting that Ghana’s fiscal regime is perceived as a deterrent to investment in the sector and that the Petroleum Commission is working on reforming this regime to attract investors. He called on the media to discuss oil and gas investment opportunities, thereby taking a leading role in global discussions.

By Derick Botsyoe and Majid Diallo || ghananewsonline.com.gh