Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Dr Yusif Sulemana has reiterated government’s commitment to maintaining oil and gas as a central pillar of Ghana’s economic and industrial development, even as the country advances its green transition agenda.

Dr Sulemana made the remarks while representing the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr John Abdulai Jinapor, as the special guest of honour at the just-ended Ghana Oil and Gas Awards held in Labadi, Accra.

Speaking at the event, Dr Sulemana said the government has been transparent about the role hydrocarbons continue to play in the economy.

“We have always believed, and we have not hidden the intention, that hydrocarbons oil and gas will continue to be a major stage in championing our economic survival,” he stated.

He emphasised that Ghana’s position aligns with global energy realities, noting that oil and gas remain dominant sources of energy worldwide.

“It is not only Ghana, but also not only Africa; it is global, because about 70 to 80 per cent of global energy is still driven by oil and gas,” he said.

However, Dr Sulemana acknowledged that hydrocarbons are finite resources, explaining that this understanding has shaped the Ministry’s approach to energy policy.

According to him, the government is deliberately investing in and diversifying its energy portfolio to include renewable and sustainable energy solutions.

“Because we know oil and gas is a finite resource, we have taken it upon ourselves to invest and diversify a portfolio within the Ministry to encapsulate the green transition,” he noted.

He stressed that Ghana is pursuing hydrocarbon development and green energy initiatives simultaneously, ensuring a balanced and sustainable approach.

“We are working the two in parallel, to the extent that we do not allow one to affect the other,” Dr Sulemana said.

Reaffirming government’s industrialisation agenda, he said oil and gas would remain a key driver of industrial growth.

“We have said oil and gas will drive our industrialisation, and that is what we are championing,” he added.