Stakeholders in Ghana’s fisheries industry have commended Springfield Exploration and Production Limited, for its contributions to the country’s oil sector. They highlighted the company’s efforts as a key driver of competition, job creation, and economic growth, particularly in the Western Region, Ghana’s oil and gas hub.
These remarks came during a stakeholder engagement organized by Springfield and its partners to announce the arrival of the Deepsea Bollsta Rig, a semi-submersible rig that will be used to appraise the Afina-1x well. The well made a significant oil discovery in 2019, marking a milestone for Springfield and the country’s upstream industry.
Nana Kweku Amosa, a chief fisherman from Jomoro in the Western Region, praised Springfield for being a local company daring to participate in an industry typically dominated by foreign firms.
“When a company like Springfield Exploration and Production Limited which is wholly Ghanaian –owned makes the daring move to participate in the upstream industry, efforts must be made to support them to succeed just like Aliko Dangote was assisted by the state and its institutions to become what he is today, a pride not only of Nigeria but Africa as well,” he said.
Amosa acknowledged the positive impact oil companies have on local communities, particularly in creating jobs for the youth. He also noted the scarcity of Ghanaian-owned companies operating at the level of major international players in sectors like mining, adding that Springfield’s achievements are a source of pride for the nation.
The fisheries sector stakeholders emphasized the need for continued support of Springfield, not only for its economic contributions but also for its dedication to supporting local businesses. Amosa pledged to spread awareness about the rig’s activities, urging canoe fishermen to avoid the area around the Afina-1x well to prevent accidents.
Officials from Springfield, the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), the Petroleum Commission, the Fisheries Commission, the Navy, the Marine Police, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also advised fishermen to keep a safe distance from the rig to ensure the safety of workers and avoid potential damage that could cost millions of dollars and threaten lives.
Despite Springfield’s positive contributions, the country’s oil and gas industry has seen a significant decline in rig activity, which has adversely affected the livelihoods of many families, particularly in the Western Region. Nonetheless, stakeholders remain optimistic that Springfield’s efforts will help revitalize the industry and bring long-term benefits to Ghana’s economy.
