The Energy Consumer Watch Ghana (ECWG) has lauded the remarkable progress at the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) under the stewardship of Managing Director Edmond Kombat, describing his tenure as a “decisive turning point” in the history of Ghana’s premier refinery.

ECWG in a statement issued highlighted that TOR, which had for years been weighed down by decline, inefficiency, and uncertainty, is now showing clear signs of recovery.

“For a prolonged period, TOR symbolised missed opportunities within Ghana’s energy sector. Years of neglect, poor maintenance, and weak strategic direction had left the refinery operating far below capacity, threatening not only its relevance but also national energy security,” the statement noted.

In the last few years, TOR faced the possibility of divestment, raising fears of job losses and increased dependence on fuel imports.

Watch as TOR resumes crude oil refining after years of inactivity

However, ECWG said the appointment of Edmond Kombat has “altered this narrative significantly,” with the refinery moving from stagnation to recovery under his leadership, alongside management and technical support staff.

The group emphasised that the success at TOR reflects “deliberate decisions, firm leadership, and the courage to confront long-standing structural and operational challenges that had crippled the refinery in the past. Such leadership deserves commendation and national support.”

ECWG praised Kombat’s management style, noting that it is “anchored in discipline, accountability, technical competence, and strategic planning,” and highlighted the resumption of refining activities after years of dormancy as “a testament to purposeful leadership, effective stakeholder engagement, and a renewed commitment to operational excellence.”

Beyond technical achievements, ECWG said TOR management has also succeeded in boosting staff morale and restoring a sense of pride among employees.

“TOR is no longer perceived merely as a struggling state enterprise, but once again as a critical national asset capable of contributing meaningfully to Ghana’s industrial growth, energy security, and foreign exchange savings,” the statement added.

The group also issued recommendations to sustain the refinery’s progress, including public support and patronage, continued government investment, and strategic private sector partnerships.

“Ghanaians are encouraged to support TOR by patronising its products and advocating for strong local content in the downstream petroleum sector. A thriving TOR benefits the entire nation,” ECWG urged.

It concluded saying that with continued backing and stable leadership, TOR “can reclaim its place as a cornerstone of Ghana’s energy sector,” and that the progress achieved so far offers “hope, not just for TOR, but for what effective leadership can achieve in Ghana’s state-owned enterprises.”