Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Limited, Ghana’s premier petroleum processing facility, has resumed crude oil refining after more than six years of inactivity, following the completion of extensive rehabilitation works.
Refining operations restarted at the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) about four days ago, with the plant currently processing approximately 28,000 barrels per stream day. Management is preparing to commission a new furnace, F-61, which is expected to raise production capacity to between 45,000 and 55,000 barrels per stream day.
A site visit on Sunday, December 21, 2025, confirmed active operations, with smoke observed from stacks near the CDU and fully functional utility stations in operation.
Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery, Edmond Kombat, described the refinery’s previous condition as critical, citing mismanagement and severe indebtedness as key factors behind the prolonged shutdown. Under the government’s “reset agenda,” management conducted a comprehensive operational review using the Fish Bone Analysis framework and stakeholder mapping to identify gaps and revival opportunities.
One major challenge identified was low staff morale caused by years without promotions. A special committee reviewed more than 300 cases, resulting in the promotion of over 250 employees—an intervention that significantly improved staff motivation and operational efficiency.
Additionally, management implemented strict cash management systems, extended terminal loading hours, and introduced stronger accountability measures in product handling. These reforms have enhanced revenue generation and restored client confidence.
The refinery has also absorbed hundreds of technicians involved in maintenance work into permanent positions. TOR now employs about 1,000 people and supports their dependents, offering benefits such as free medical care.
Although the refinery is not yet operating at full capacity, test runs and system flushing have been successfully completed. Officials say a formal commissioning ceremony will be held once operational stability is fully achieved.
The revival of TOR demonstrates how strategic planning, disciplined management, and effective collaboration with labour unions can restore critical national infrastructure and strengthen Ghana’s energy sector.
