Constant fuel supply, better pricing top agenda for acting NPA boss

Edudzi Tamakloe, the Acting CEO of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), assumes office during a critical period marked by potential fuel shortages. His immediate priority is ensuring nationwide fuel availability, especially in the Northern regions, where logistical challenges have disrupted supply.

Measures such as allowing Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to load petrol from BOST’s Kumasi depot aim to mitigate the crisis.

Fuel affordability is another pressing concern, with prices nearing GH₵16 per liter.

While there is speculation about suspending petroleum product margins to ease prices, stakeholders like ACEP have called for the NPA to focus on ensuring supply and quality rather than collecting margins.

ACEP suggests converting these margins into government-controlled tax handles for development purposes.

Additionally, the 2024 Petroleum Products Pricing Guidelines, which set a price floor for OMCs, face criticism. Some industry groups advocate for introducing a price ceiling to balance market deregulation and consumer protection.

Tamakloe's leadership will require bold decisions to stabilize supply, manage pricing, and restore confidence in the sector.