The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) is shifting toward data-driven decision-making and advanced technologies to reinvigorate the country’s declining upstream oil and gas sector.
Acting CEO Joseph Dadzie Amoah announced this strategic pivot at the Africa Energies Summit, outlining GNPC’s commitment to leveraging digital tools and innovation for sustainable energy development. “To take Ghana to the next level, we must rethink our upstream strategy, emphasizing a shift toward data-driven decisions and the adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence,” he said.
Mr. Amoah noted that GNPC is investing in digital solutions for reservoir management, drilling optimization, and enhanced seismic data acquisition. Technologies such as 4D seismic imaging, Ocean Bottom Node systems, and satellite imagery will be deployed to reduce exploration risks and boost productivity.
This comes as Ghana’s oil production declines from 195,750 barrels per day (bpd) in 2019 to around 110,500 bpd, a drop attributed to maturing fields, inadequate exploration, and regulatory uncertainties.
Calling for a stable policy framework, Mr. Amoah stressed that consistent regulations are crucial to attracting investors. “GNPC shares these concerns as a local investor. We need a mindset shift—one that balances innovation, investment, and sustainability,” he emphasized.
He urged stronger collaboration among local and international oil companies, service providers, and technology innovators to optimize resources, reduce costs, and accelerate growth.
Aligned with the President’s broader energy transformation agenda, GNPC seeks to become a center of excellence in Africa, building local capacity while promoting sustainability and contributing to global decarbonization goals.
“Resetting our upstream agenda isn’t just about boosting output—it’s about building a resilient energy future for Ghana,” Mr. Amoah concluded.
