The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) has officially resumed crude oil processing operations after a prolonged shutdown of over six years.
The state-owned facility, which boasts a daily capacity of 45,000 barrels, marked its revival on December 19, 2025, with visible activity captured in a short video showcasing the flare stack in full operation. This development comes amid ongoing efforts to reduce the nation’s heavy reliance on imported fuels, potentially easing economic strains from fluctuating global oil prices.
TOR’s management has outlined plans to prioritize domestic supply chains with the initial output, aiming to stabilize local fuel availability and support key industries. The refinery’s reactivation is seen as a strategic move under the current administration to enhance energy self-sufficiency, especially in light of recent economic challenges including currency depreciation and inflation. Industry experts note that this could pave the way for increased investments in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector.
[VIDEO] Ghana’s Tema Oil Refinery Springs Back to Life After Six-Year Hiatus
Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) officially resumes operations
— GhanaTrends.com (@GhanaTrendsInc) December 27, 2025
The video evidence, shared widely on social media platforms, has sparked optimism among Ghanaians, with many viewing it as a symbol of industrial resurgence. However, challenges such as maintenance backlogs and sourcing consistent crude supplies remain hurdles that TOR must address to sustain long-term operations. Government officials have expressed commitment to providing necessary support to ensure the refinery operates at optimal levels.
As Ghana pushes towards energy independence, the TOR restart could influence regional fuel dynamics in West Africa. Stakeholders are monitoring the progress closely, anticipating positive ripple effects on employment and economic growth in the Tema industrial zone.
