The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, has announced a major reform in the distribution of premix fuel, revealing that deliveries are now made directly from the Tema Oil Refinery to various landing beaches across the country.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the minister explained that the new system is designed to eliminate bottlenecks and prevent the diversion of this essential commodity meant for fisherfolk.

“This diversification strengthens supply reliability and eliminates bottlenecks. Premix fuel is now delivered directly from the Tema Oil Refinery to landing beaches, bypassing intermediaries,” she stated.

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To support the smooth implementation of this new distribution model, five additional Bulk Distribution Companies (BDCs) have been engaged.

Between February and June 2025, a total of 14.2 million litres of premix fuel were supplied to landing beaches nationwide.

Emelia Arthur said the reform will ensure equitable access, reduce corruption, and curb the diversion of premix fuel.

She also vowed to recover the unaccounted-for 53 percent of profits derived from premix fuel sales over the past eight years.

“We are ready to track down and retrieve the 53 percent of premix fuel profits allocated for developing fishing communities. That money must be used for its intended purpose,” she affirmed.

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Under the National Premix Fuel Committee (NPFC) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2233), Landing Beach Committees (LBCs) are mandated to undertake development projects within fishing communities using profits from premix fuel sales, with 53 percent earmarked for community development.

The minister expressed concern over the conduct of some LBC executives who consistently sell premix fuel at inflated prices and to individuals not involved in the fishing industry.

She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in the distribution and use of premix fuel resources.

SA/MA