Ghana, UAE to Expand Energy Cooperation, Target Oil storage and Renewables

Ghana has intensified efforts to attract investment into its downstream petroleum sector, seeking support from the United Arab Emirates for the development of oil and gas storage infrastructure aimed at strengthening energy security in West Africa.

The push formed part of discussions between Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during a bilateral meeting held on Wednesday on the sidelines of the “Make it in the Emirates 2026” summit at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

According to officials familiar with the meeting, discussions focused on expanding energy cooperation between both countries, particularly through potential UAE investment in Ghana’s petroleum storage facilities and broader downstream infrastructure.

The proposed collaboration is expected to enhance Ghana’s capacity to store petroleum products, improve supply stability and reinforce its position as a strategic energy hub within the West African sub-region.

The meeting comes at a time when many African countries are seeking to strengthen domestic energy infrastructure amid growing concerns over supply disruptions, price volatility and geopolitical tensions affecting global oil markets.

Excluding conventional oil infrastructure, both leaders also discussed the need to diversify energy systems through increased investment in cleaner and more sustainable alternatives.

Particular emphasis was placed on expanding the role of Liquefied Natural Gas and solar power as part of broader efforts to reduce overdependence on crude oil and improve long-term energy resilience.

The discussions further explored opportunities for collaboration in renewable energy, technology, innovation and artificial intelligence, areas both countries identified as increasingly important to future economic growth.

Mahama and Sheikh Mohamed also exchanged views on the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, including the implications of the conflict between the United States and Iran on global energy markets and regional stability.

Both leaders acknowledged the strategic role of the UAE within the region and expressed hope for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

They noted that easing geopolitical tensions would allow greater global focus on economic development, technological advancement and sustainable energy investment.

The UAE has increasingly expanded its economic footprint across Africa in recent years, investing in infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy and trade partnerships.

For Ghana, attracting strategic foreign investment remains central to efforts to modernise its energy sector, strengthen industrial capacity and improve energy reliability.

The country continues to pursue policies aimed at balancing energy security with sustainability, while positioning itself as a competitive destination for international investment.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming the longstanding diplomatic and economic ties between Ghana and the UAE.

Sheikh Mohamed reportedly described Ghana as a “peaceful partner” and a “secure, stable democracy”, noting that both countries share significant opportunities for deeper cooperation and mutual growth.

The two leaders expressed confidence that renewed collaboration across energy, trade and technology sectors would deliver long-term benefits for both nations.

The engagement also exhibits a broader trend of African economies seeking strategic partnerships with Gulf states to support infrastructure development, energy transition efforts and economic diversification.