President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned a new Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) vessel in the Republic of Korea, describing it as a major step toward strengthening energy security for Ghana and the wider West African region.

Speaking at the ceremony on Thursday, President Mahama said the commissioning of the MT Asharami Ghana represents more than the launch of a vessel, noting that it will strengthen the global LPG supply chain and improve energy access across Africa.

“This occasion represents more than the launch of a vessel. It marks a significant milestone in strengthening the infrastructure that underpins the global LPG supply chain,” he said.

The vessel, developed through the Sahara Group and WAGL Energy partnership, is a state-of-the-art dual-fuel, fully refrigerated LPG carrier designed to increase transport capacity and support the growing energy needs of West Africa.

President Mahama emphasised the importance of LPG in Africa’s transition to cleaner energy, explaining that it provides a healthier alternative to traditional fuels such as charcoal, firewood and kerosene.

“For millions of households across Africa, LPG offers a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels. Its wider adoption contributes to improved public health and environmental sustainability,” he noted.

He added that Ghana currently produces about half of its LPG needs locally and relies on imports for the remainder, making expanded shipping capacity critical to ensuring stable supply.

“While Ghana produces about 50 per cent of its LPG requirements, we still depend on imports for the other half. Expanding transport capacity will help ensure reliable access to modern energy for households and industries,” the President said.

President Mahama also praised the partners behind the project for their investment and innovation, saying the vessel demonstrates the power of international cooperation in addressing Africa’s energy infrastructure needs.

He expressed optimism that the new vessel would support economic growth, strengthen regional energy logistics and inspire further investment in Africa’s energy sector.