GNPC Engages Stakeholders in Cape Coast Ahead of Saltpond Field Decommissioning Resumption
Cape Coast, Ghana – The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) has successfully concluded a three-day stakeholder engagement with key community members in Cape Coast to ensure the smooth resumption of the Saltpond Field Decommissioning Project (SFDP). This initiative forms part of GNPC’s commitment to transparent communication and collaboration with local stakeholders as contractors prepare to return to the decommissioning site.
The engagement brought together traditional authorities, fisherfolk, canoe owners, and other affected community members. Key discussions centered on enforcing a 500-meter restriction zone around the “Mr. Louie,” rig to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all stakeholders and the environment during the dismantling process. The decommissioning of the Saltpond oil field, which began production in 1978, represents a major milestone, as it was Ghana’s first offshore oil field.
GNPC’s SFDP Team, led by Madam Patience Lartey, Deputy Manager of Social Performance & Local Content, visited local leaders including the Paramount Chief of the Nkusukum Traditional Area, Okogyeman Okese Esandoh IX, and Chiefs of Kuntu and Saltpond. The discussions focused on safety measures, environmental protection, and the socio-economic impacts of the decommissioning project.
Mr. Richard Asmah, a Petroleum Engineer at GNPC, provided updates on the decommissioning progress, stating that 60% of the work has been completed, with wells already sealed. The contractor is expected to return by February next year, with the entire process scheduled to take approximately six months.
The engagement also addressed concerns about potential environmental risks, such as oil spills. The SFDP team reassured stakeholders that international industry standards are being adhered to in sealing the wells to prevent such incidents. Nana Gyan Ankwada VII of Saltpond raised questions about the potential impacts on fishing activities. Madam Patience Lartey emphasized the necessity of the 500-meter safety zone and urged the community to comply with the guidelines for the safety of all involved.
Madam Lartey assured the community that GNPC would continue to engage with all stakeholders throughout the decommissioning process, with a commitment to safeguarding the environment and ensuring the project’s success.
GNPC has pledged to maintain regular updates on the progress of the Saltpond Field Decommissioning Project and remains committed to fostering strong relationships with the communities impacted by its operations.