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Mr Kwame Ntow Amoah, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), has pledged to strengthen cooperation among Africa’s oil-producing nations after assuming the role of Chairman of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO).
His appointment was formalised during a handover ceremony at the seventh APPO National Oil Companies CEOs Meeting held in Accra, where the outgoing Chairman, Mr Bienvenido Nguema Envo of Equatorial Guinea’s national oil company, GEPetrol, officially transferred leadership to him.
Speaking after his confirmation, Mr Amoah described the new role as a call to action, stressing that Africa’s oil and gas industry must respond collectively to global challenges. “Africa’s petroleum landscape is being reshaped by several factors, including financing, technology, workforce development, and climate realities at a time of global energy transition. Our shared vision is clear: to harness Africa’s vast hydrocarbon resources responsibly, sustainably, and strategically,” he said.
He noted that his leadership would focus on strengthening collaboration through initiatives like the Africa Energy Bank, building innovation-driven partnerships, and encouraging closer trade and investment ties between petroleum-producing countries.
Mr Amoah also highlighted the importance of trust among African nations, insisting that “Africa’s energy future must be led by African voices, African institutions, and a strong African resolve.”
On his part, the outgoing Chairman, Mr Nguema Envo, praised APPO as a vital platform for sharing ideas and experiences in managing the dynamic oil and gas industry. He acknowledged that while the sector faces challenges, they also provide opportunities for innovation, diversification, and sustainable development. “Operating with excellence, innovation, and fostering collaboration will strengthen our collective resilience,” he said.
The handover came at a time when Africa’s oil producers are seeking to balance global energy demands with commitments to climate action and sustainable development. The two-day CEOs meeting, held alongside Africa Oil Week 2025, attracted senior executives and policymakers from 19 member states. The sessions focused on key issues such as shared infrastructure, local content policies, innovation, and investment opportunities.
Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Mr John Abdulai Jinapor, was also in attendance, reinforcing the country’s position as a leading voice in Africa’s energy discussions. Hosting the event in Accra further demonstrated Ghana’s commitment to promoting continental dialogue and cooperation in the petroleum sector.
Founded in Lagos, Nigeria, on 27 January 1987, APPO began with eight member countries and now has 18, including Algeria, Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Libya, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa. Over the years, it has evolved into a key institution for coordinating Africa’s petroleum policies and strategies.
Mr Amoah’s elevation to Chairman of APPO is seen as a milestone for Ghana’s energy sector. It places the country in a stronger position to influence decisions on the future of Africa’s oil and gas industry, particularly at a time when many nations are navigating the global energy transition.
Observers say his appointment offers Ghana an opportunity to push for deeper regional cooperation in areas such as research, innovation, skills development, and financing. With his leadership, APPO is expected to review and reinforce the role of the Africa Energy Bank, a project designed to provide funding for oil and gas development on the continent and reduce dependence on external financing.
The GNPC has been instrumental in developing Ghana’s petroleum industry since its establishment, contributing to exploration, production, and partnerships with international players. Under Mr Amoah’s leadership, the corporation is expected to play a central role in promoting stronger ties between African producers.
Industry analysts believe the new APPO Chairman will have to balance the continent’s immediate need to monetise its oil and gas resources with long-term climate obligations. His call for African unity in tackling financing and technology gaps reflects growing concerns that the continent must take charge of its own energy future.
Mr Amoah’s appointment signals a new chapter for APPO and positions Ghana as a leading force in shaping the petroleum policies of Africa.
