The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) of Ghana has issued a comprehensive statement refuting claims of an Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK) shortage within the country. The Authority emphatically assured the public and the aviation industry that adequate ATK supplies are available across the country, dismissing the shortage reports as unfounded. The NPA detailed the current supply situation, highlighting the successful completion of crucial pipeline replacement works and the ongoing discharge of over 10,000 metric tonnes of ATK into key national depots. This proactive approach underscores the NPA’s commitment to maintaining a stable and reliable aviation fuel supply chain.
The successful completion of pipeline replacement works played a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth flow of ATK to the national depots. The NPA commended the engineers of the Ghana Pipeline and Storage Company (GPMS) for their diligent efforts in replacing 600 meters of pipeline, enabling the efficient discharge of ATK for various aviation purposes. Their round-the-clock work ensured operational continuity and facilitated the timely replenishment of ATK reserves. This infrastructure upgrade highlights the NPA’s proactive approach to maintaining a robust and resilient fuel supply infrastructure.
The current ATK discharge operation involves a vessel carrying over 10,000 metric tonnes of fuel, strategically distributed among key national depots. The allocation includes 6,000 metric tonnes to the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), a major refining facility, 1,500 metric tonnes to the Ridge Depot, and 4,500 metric tonnes to PWSL, contributing to a balanced distribution network. The NPA estimates that this substantial supply will suffice for approximately two weeks under current demand conditions, providing a buffer against potential disruptions. This strategic allocation ensures that various regions have access to the necessary fuel supplies, mitigating the risk of localized shortages.
To further bolster supply stability and ensure long-term availability, the NPA confirmed the presence of two additional vessels at anchorage, poised to discharge more fuel as scheduled. This proactive measure reflects the Authority’s commitment to maintaining a consistent supply of ATK and mitigating any potential future shortages. The readiness of these vessels to discharge fuel provides a comforting assurance of the NPA’s proactive approach to supply chain management. This forward-looking strategy reinforces the resilience of Ghana’s aviation fuel supply chain.
The NPA also highlighted the commencement of loading operations from the Sahara Depot, with tankers actively transporting fuel directly to the airport. This active distribution network demonstrates the robust functionality of the supply chain, effectively connecting storage facilities to the point of consumption. The NPA emphasized this activity as a clear indication of the supply chain’s resilience and its capacity to meet the demands of the aviation sector efficiently. This smooth flow of fuel from the depot to the airport further underscores the absence of any supply disruptions.
In its concluding remarks, the NPA urged the media and the public to disregard reports of an ATK shortage, emphasizing the inaccuracy of such claims. The Authority reiterated its commitment to collaborating closely with industry stakeholders to ensure sustained product availability and safeguard national energy security. The NPA’s proactive communication and transparency aim to build public trust and confidence in the robustness of the aviation fuel supply chain. The Authority’s dedication to collaboration and open communication reinforces its commitment to maintaining a reliable and secure energy landscape.
