President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned a new Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) carrier, MT Asharami Ghana, in the Republic of Korea, marking a significant step toward strengthening Ghana’s energy security and expanding LPG supply across West Africa.
Speaking at the ceremony on Thursday, March 12, 2026, President Mahama described the commissioning of the vessel as more than just the launch of a ship, emphasizing that it represents a major milestone in strengthening global LPG transport infrastructure and enhancing reliable energy supply for countries that depend partly on LPG imports.
The President noted that many African countries, including Ghana, rely on imported LPG to complement domestic production. Expanding global shipping capacity, he said, is therefore essential to improving supply reliability, stabilising prices through efficient logistics, and diversifying energy supply sources across international markets.
The newly commissioned vessel, a modern dual-fuel and fully refrigerated LPG carrier, forms part of the West Africa Gas Limited (WAGL) Energy initiative aimed at strengthening energy logistics across the region. Its deployment significantly increases LPG transportation capacity and supports the growing demand for cleaner energy across West Africa.
President Mahama stressed that expanding LPG access is crucial to Africa’s energy transition. For millions of households across the continent, LPG provides a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels such as charcoal, firewood, and kerosene. Increased adoption, he noted, helps reduce deforestation, limit indoor air pollution, and improve public health outcomes.
He revealed that Ghana currently produces about 50 percent of its LPG needs locally but still relies on imports to meet the remaining demand. The addition of the MT Asharami Ghana to the global LPG fleet is therefore expected to strengthen the country’s ability to transport the fuel safely and efficiently, ensuring a more stable supply for industries, businesses, and households.
President Mahama also commended the Sahara Group, West Africa Gas Limited, and other partners involved in the project for their leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to advancing energy infrastructure across Africa.
He further highlighted that the commissioning of the vessel reflects the importance of international cooperation and the growing partnership between African nations and global partners in advancing sustainable development.
The President expressed optimism that the MT Asharami Ghana would stand as a symbol of progress and inspire further investments, innovation, and collaboration across Africa’s energy value chain as the continent works toward a more secure and sustainable energy future.
LISTEN TO PRESIDENT MAHAMA IN THE AUDIO BELOW:
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh(#RomeoWrites✍️)/Ahotoronline.com | Ghana 🇬🇭