Preparations for the first exploratory well in Ghana's onshore Voltaian Basin have reached a significant milestone. A delegation from the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) and its operating subsidiary, GNPC Explorco, conducted a high-level inspection of the proposed well location at Chegu in the Mion District. The inspection assessed ground-level readiness and identified immediate engineering and civil works required ahead of drilling.
The Managing Director of GNPC Explorco, Samuel Opoku Arthur, announced that construction of a 13.5-kilometre access road to the proposed well location will begin in the coming weeks. The road will provide access for transporting drilling rigs, heavy machinery, and equipment to the well site. It will also facilitate wellsite clearing, levelling, and civil construction.
The inspection is part of preparations to test the hydrocarbon potential of the Voltaian Basin, a large inland sedimentary basin covering parts of northern and central Ghana. The proposed drilling programme aims to provide further geological information on the basin and determine its hydrocarbon potential. This project is expected to bring increased activity and opportunities for local participation.
Before the site inspection, the GNPC and GNPC Explorco delegation paid a courtesy call on the Chegu Naa at his palace. The engagement provided an opportunity for the companies to reaffirm their commitment to working closely with the traditional authority and the wider community. The Chegu Naa welcomed the project and expressed the community's support.
The Chegu Naa urged the corporation and its operating subsidiary to maintain transparent communication, respect local traditions, and sustain close engagement with the community. GNPC Explorco reaffirmed its commitment to working with district authorities, traditional councils, and host communities throughout the exploration campaign. The company will undertake the activities with environmental safeguards and in line with applicable operational standards.
The proposed drilling programme is expected to provide valuable information on the Voltaian Basin's hydrocarbon potential. For communities around Chegu, the project is expected to bring increased activity and opportunities for local participation as preparations move into the next phase. GNPC Explorco is the designated operator of the exploration programme.
GNPC Explorco's Managing Director, Samuel Opoku Arthur, emphasized that there is significant progress in advancing the project. The company is committed to working closely with the community and stakeholders to ensure the project's success. The project is a significant step towards exploring Ghana's onshore hydrocarbon potential.
Key points
- GNPC Explorco to commence construction of 13.5km access road to the proposed well location in the coming weeks.
- The project aims to test the hydrocarbon potential of the Voltaian Basin and provide further geological information.
- GNPC Explorco reaffirms its commitment to working with district authorities, traditional councils, and host communities throughout the exploration campaign.