The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) emphasized its dedication to compliant asset management and proactive community engagement during consultations with Nkusukum Traditional Area authorities.
The engagement, held at Petroleum House, brought together GNPC management and the Paramount Chief, Nana Okese Asandoh IX, alongside other traditional leaders including Nana Kwame Ntsiful of Ankaful and Nana Kwao Buko V of Biriwa. Discussions focused on the status of the Saltpond Decommissioning Project and prospective upstream petroleum activities in the area.
Receiving the delegation, GNPC’s Deputy Chief Executive for Exploration and Production, Michael Aryeetey, emphasised “open and continuous dialogue” with host communities as central to responsible petroleum operations.
Deliberations addressed concerns from local fisherfolk regarding project timelines and restricted access to certain facility areas. Management clarified that the decommissioning work remains active, with delays linked to contractual and cost verifications, including mandatory third-party technical assessments designed to ensure “full regulatory compliance” and operational safety before the next phase.
Aryeetey highlighted that decommissioning is a “complex and highly regulated technical process,” stressing GNPC’s responsibility to safeguard the marine ecosystem and long-term community interests. Management reaffirmed that all operations follow national regulatory requirements and international best practices, with post-decommissioning evaluations set to explore environmentally sustainable options, including potential marine enhancement initiatives.
GNPC also confirmed that its Social Performance team will maintain structured engagement with fisherfolk and community leaders to provide updates and address emerging concerns.
Traditional leaders were briefed on planned seismic acquisition activities within the operational area, which could eventually progress to drilling and production, subject to regulatory approvals and technical outcomes. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between GNPC and traditional authorities to facilitate safe, lawful, and environmentally responsible petroleum operations.The Chiefs expressed support for GNPC’s initiatives and reiterated their commitment to peaceful cooperation. They also presented requests for community development, including the construction of a Traditional Council Office and transport support under GNPC’s Corporate Social Investment framework. Management acknowledged the requests, affirming continued investment in structured initiatives aligned with corporate priorities and long-term sustainability objectives.
