Ghana’s Energy and Green Transition Minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, has emphasized that Africa Oil Week (AOW) Energy 2025 represents a pivotal moment for the continent’s energy trajectory, positioning Ghana as a central hub for strategic energy dialogue and investment decisions that will determine Africa’s energy landscape for decades to come.
Speaking at the ongoing conference in Accra, Jinapor urged African leaders, policymakers, and investors to take charge of the continent’s energy future rather than relying on external prescriptions.
The minister’s remarks underscore a growing continental movement toward energy sovereignty and self-determination in resource development strategies.
The event, scheduled for September 15-18, 2025, at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, brings together key industry leaders, including ministers, national oil companies (NOCs), regulators, and private sector executives.
This high-profile gathering aims to unlock investment opportunities, forge strategic energy partnerships, and fundamentally reshape how Africa approaches upstream oil and gas development.
Jinapor’s vision extends beyond traditional fossil fuel development, as Ghana is on course to achieve at least 35% renewable energy in its national electricity generation mix by the end of 2025.
This ambitious target demonstrates the minister’s commitment to balancing immediate energy security needs with long-term sustainability goals, reflecting a pragmatic approach to Africa’s energy transition.
The minister has been particularly vocal about ensuring that Africa’s energy transition serves the continent’s development priorities.
Jinapor has cautioned that Africa will not embrace an energy transition that worsens inequality and denies citizens access to reliable power.
This stance reflects growing concerns among African leaders about externally imposed energy policies that may not align with local economic realities and development needs.
At Africa Oil Week 2025, Jinapor announced $3.5 billion in oil and gas investments, demonstrating the conference’s effectiveness as a platform for securing crucial funding for energy infrastructure development.
These investments are expected to significantly boost Ghana’s position in the regional energy market while supporting the country’s broader economic development objectives.
The conference also features the 7th APPO NOC CEO Meeting, bringing together the heads of Africa’s National Oil Companies in Accra.
The meeting, facilitated by the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) and GNPC, will provide a platform for collaboration on licensing rounds, energy security, and regional partnerships.
Edward Bawa, CEO of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), praised Minister Jinapor’s leadership, stating it “has been instrumental in positioning Ghana as a key voice in Africa’s energy transition”.
This recognition highlights Ghana’s emerging role as a continental leader in balancing traditional energy development with renewable energy integration.
The AOW conference represents more than just an industry gathering; it symbolizes Africa’s determination to control its energy destiny.
By hosting this premier event, Ghana demonstrates its commitment to fostering intra-African collaboration while attracting international investment on terms that benefit the continent’s long-term development goals.
As African nations grapple with energy security challenges and climate commitments, platforms like AOW become increasingly crucial for charting a sustainable and prosperous energy future.
Story Written By Prince Asante Kwarteng | Kobby Kyei News
