The Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BEST) formally BOST has announced the appointment of Afetsi Awoonor as its new Managing Director, effective January 20, 2025.
A seasoned energy sector executive with extensive experience in Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Awoonor steps into the role as the company embarks on a new strategic direction under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.
Ceremonial handover marks leadership transition
The leadership transition was formalized during a ceremony at BOST’s Head Office in Accra.
Outgoing Managing Director Dr. Edwin Provencal handed over the reins to Mr. Awoonor in what was described as a model display of corporate governance.
Dr. Provencal, who led BOST to significant milestones, received commendations for his service.
Expressing gratitude, Mr. Awoonor remarked, “Under Dr. Provencal’s guidance, BOST has achieved remarkable growth. I am honoured to take up the mantle and committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence as we drive the company into its next phase.”
Veteran expertise for strategic growth
With nearly a decade of expertise in the African oil and gas sector, Mr. Awoonor previously served as Senior Partner at DOC Africa and Regional Head of Sales and Marketing at Convenio Energy, where he managed hydrocarbon trading in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
Notably, this appointment marks his return to BOST, where he held the role of Manager of Government Relations from September 2016 to April 2017.
Mr. Awoonor holds an Executive Master’s in International Oil & Gas Leadership from the Geneva Graduate Institute and a Master’s degree in Oil and Gas Management from IFP School, both obtained in 2015.
His strong academic background is complemented by practical expertise in trading and business development across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Broad support from stakeholders
The appointment has garnered support from various stakeholders.
The BOST Senior Staff Union pledged full cooperation, emphasizing the President’s dedication to appointing competent leaders for national institutions.
The Ketu North branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) lauded the decision, describing it as a recognition of loyalty, competence, and hard work.
The Weta Traditional Area Chiefs’ Council expressed pride and confidence in Mr. Awoonor’s capabilities, while the Volta Regional Youth Wing of the NDC hailed his elevation as a testament to the President’s confidence in Ghanaian youth.
Commitment to excellence and social development
In his remarks, Mr. Awoonor outlined plans to engage with internal stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and a high-performance work environment.
Beyond his corporate commitments, he is dedicated to social development through the Afetsi Awoonor Foundation, which supports youth and women empowerment through training, mentorship, and entrepreneurship.
Critical role in national energy security
BOST, incorporated in 1993, plays a pivotal role in ensuring Ghana’s energy security by managing the nation’s bulk oil storage and transportation infrastructure.
The leadership transition comes at a time when effective management of energy resources is critical to both national and regional development.
