The Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) has assured traditional rulers and residents of Nzema, particularly those within the company’s catchment area, that it remains committed to meeting the demands and expectations of the people in the oil and gas enclave.
The company made this assurance following concerns raised by Nana Morkeh Kpanyinli IV, Chief of Ngalekyi, regarding the operations of the company and its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities in the region.
In response to the chief’s claims about landowner compensation, Ghana Gas clarified that all landowners with appropriate documentation, whose lands were affected by its operations, had indeed received compensation.
However, the company acknowledged that ongoing litigation cases needed to be resolved before compensation could be fully disbursed to all affected parties.
This response was provided in a press release issued and signed by Richard Ernest Kirk-Mensah, Head of Corporate Communications at the Ghana National Gas Company, and shared with the Ghana News Agency in Aiyinasi, located in the Ellembelle District.
Addressing concerns about flaring activities and their environmental impact, the company strongly denied the assertion that its flaring operations were detrimental to the health of community members, describing the claim as “unsubstantiated and not supported by scientific evidence.”
Ghana Gas emphasized that as an International Standardized Operation certified company, it adheres to high-quality international standards and prioritizes environmental protection, as well as the health and safety of both its staff and the community. The company’s commitment to responsible operations is further demonstrated by a report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The company also clarified that it is not responsible for gas pricing, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC). Nonetheless, Ghana Gas expressed its willingness to advocate for a reduction in prices, should it be possible.
On the issue of employment opportunities, Ghana Gas acknowledged Nana Morkeh Kpanyinli IV’s concerns and reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the matter. Under the leadership of the company’s new Chief Executive Officer, Judith Adjobah Blay, Ghana Gas is developing a strategy that aligns with the President’s agenda to reduce unemployment. The company stated that this plan would be communicated to all communities within its catchment area to benefit many indigenes.
Regarding the impact of its operations on fishing activities, the company assured the community that its pipelines are laid under the seabed and do not obstruct fishing operations. Ghana Gas further explained that international best practices dictate that fishermen avoid marked perimeters, but the offshore activities occupy less than 1% of the available space, leaving ample room for fishing.
Ghana Gas expressed that the response addresses the concerns raised by Nana Morkeh Kpanyinli IV and demonstrates its commitment to responsible operations, transparency, and ongoing community engagement.
