President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday oversaw the commissioning of a newly built liquefied petroleum gas vessel in Ulsan, South Korea, describing the development as an important boost to Ghana’s energy infrastructure and long-term supply security.
The vessel, MT Asharami Ghana, was constructed for Sahara Energy by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and is expected to strengthen the country’s liquefied petroleum gas distribution network.
Speaking during the ceremony while on a working visit to South Korea, Mahama noted that the project reflects the value of international cooperation and technological advancement in addressing Ghana’s energy needs. According to him, the addition of the vessel will help improve the efficiency of LPG transportation and ensure a more stable supply for the country.
He explained that the new carrier will operate under the Ghanaian flag and will primarily transport LPG for domestic use, a move aimed at improving delivery reliability and supporting price stability through better logistics.
The President also praised the collaborative efforts of Sahara Energy, West African Gas Limited, and their partners, saying the project demonstrates how strategic investments and innovation can help close infrastructure gaps and create new economic opportunities across the region.
The MT Asharami Ghana, a modern dual-fuel and fully refrigerated LPG carrier, forms part of a broader effort to expand transport capacity for petroleum gas within West Africa. Its deployment is expected to strengthen regional energy logistics and support the growing demand for LPG across the sub-region.
Mahama further highlighted the importance of LPG in Africa’s energy transition, pointing out that the fuel provides a cleaner option compared with traditional sources such as charcoal and firewood. Expanding its use, he said, could improve public health, limit deforestation, and reduce indoor air pollution.
For Ghana and other African countries that rely partly on imported LPG to supplement domestic production, the investment is expected to enhance supply security while also opening opportunities for job creation and broader participation in the global energy market.
The commissioning of the vessel forms part of Sahara Group’s wider plan to expand its downstream fleet and improve the safe and efficient transportation of LPG, reinforcing efforts to strengthen energy infrastructure and promote sustainable development across West Africa.
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