The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) has officially resumed crude oil processing after more than six years of inactivity, marking a significant milestone for Ghana’s energy sector.
The revival follows a comprehensive turnaround maintenance exercise and major rehabilitation works completed several weeks ago. Production reportedly restarted at the Crude Distillation Unit approximately four days ago, with the facility currently processing an estimated 28,000 barrels of crude per stream day.
A visit to the refinery on Sunday, December 21, 2025, confirmed active production as smoke was observed from the stacks near the unit and the utility station remained fully operational.
Managing Director Edmond Kombat, Esq., attributed the successful restart to disciplined management and strategic planning. Under his leadership, the refinery has addressed long-standing internal challenges, including the promotion of over 250 employees to boost morale and the implementation of strict reforms in cash management and product accountability.
These measures, along with extended terminal loading hours, have already led to a noticeable increase in revenue. Management is now looking toward the future, with plans to commission a new furnace that is expected to eventually increase the refinery’s output to between 45,000 and 55,000 barrels per stream day.
Beyond technical operations, the restoration of the premier refinery has provided a substantial boost to the local economy and labor market.
The maintenance phase engaged hundreds of technicians, many of whom have been absorbed into a permanent workforce that now supports approximately 1,000 employees and their dependents. While the full commissioning process remains ongoing, refinery leadership maintains that the current output demonstrates the facility’s potential to once again serve as a critical national asset through continued cooperation between management and labor unions.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
