Ghana is proving to be better insulated from fuel-supply disruptions linked to the ongoing Iran conflict than many of its sub-Saharan African peers. This resilience is largely attributed to the country’s diverse range of import sources, which includes consistent shipments from Russia.
The Hellas Fighter and Strategic Supply
Underscoring these ongoing flows, a tanker carrying refined fuel from Russia is currently en route to Ghana. The Hellas Fighter, which loaded clean products at Vysotsk, is bound for Tema—Ghana’s primary oil hub. According to ship-tracking data, the vessel was passing Mauritania on Tuesday with approximately 320,000 barrels onboard and is expected to dock on April 6.
Russian shipments have played a vital role in meeting Ghana’s domestic fuel demand for years. Because the country has limited refining capacity, it remains heavily reliant on imports. In 2023, Russia was Ghana’s second-largest supplier of petroleum products, accounting for roughly 18% of its mineral fuel imports.
Diversity as a Defense Mechanism
“Ghana doesn’t rely on any particular country for fuel supplies,” stated Abass Tasunti, director of economic regulation and planning at the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). He noted that while Russia is a significant contributor, it has never been the sole primary source. Ghana typically uses the Northwest Europe Market as its pricing benchmark.
This diversity of suppliers is a critical benefit during this period of heightened regional risk. While many countries in eastern and southern Africa are facing severe shortages due to their heavy reliance on Middle Eastern shipments—many of which are currently constrained by the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz—Ghana has maintained a steady flow.
Regional Strain vs. Ghana’s Options
The impact of the conflict is already visible across the continent. Kenya and Zambia have reported localized shortages at gas stations, while Mozambique has seen long queues as governments struggle to contain rising pump prices.
Ghana, though not immune to these global price pressures, possesses broader supply options that prevent physical shortages. The Netherlands has remained its largest fuel import source in recent years. Furthermore, the Dangote refinery in nearby Nigeria is emerging as a strategic alternative. “Dangote will be a good source of products to Ghana because of proximity,” Tasunti added, noting that international oil trading companies continue to ship products to Ghana without interruption despite the war.
