Ghana is stepping up efforts to attract Canadian investors to its oil and gas industry as it looks to expand exploration activities and strengthen its position in the global energy market.
The initiative was highlighted during the 2026 Global Energy Summit in Canada, where representatives of the Petroleum Commission engaged potential investors and promoted opportunities within Ghana’s petroleum sector. Discussions focused on both offshore assets and the largely untapped onshore Voltaian Basin.
Leading the delegation was the Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission, Emeafa Hardcastle, who emphasized Ghana’s commitment to creating a favorable environment for energy investments.
According to Hardcastle, growing uncertainty in global energy markets has increased the need for reliable and diversified energy sources, creating an opportunity for countries with significant resource potential. She noted that Ghana possesses both established and frontier hydrocarbon prospects that can support long-term investment.
She also highlighted the strong relationship between Ghana and Canada, pointing out that the two countries share similar legal traditions based on common law, which can provide confidence for investors seeking regulatory stability.
Hardcastle said Ghana aims to benefit from Canadian expertise in areas such as advanced petroleum technology, natural gas development and infrastructure expansion. She added that the country is exploring modern solutions to improve resource recovery, operational efficiency and environmental performance across the sector.
With demand for electricity and industrial energy rising, Ghana is also looking to attract investment into gas-related infrastructure, including processing plants and pipeline networks.
The Petroleum Commission identified several opportunities for investors, including participation in appraisal projects, farm-in agreements and available acreage in the Tano and Accra-Keta basins.
Particular attention has been given to the Voltaian Basin, which covers a substantial portion of Ghana’s territory. Recent geological and seismic studies have increased interest in the area, with preliminary findings suggesting the presence of a functioning petroleum system.
Authorities plan to drill the basin’s first exploration well between late 2026 and early 2027. Officials believe the project will provide critical data, reduce exploration risks and encourage further investment.
Hardcastle reaffirmed Ghana’s openness to international partnerships, inviting investors to take advantage of opportunities in the country’s hydrocarbon industry while supporting environmentally responsible development.
Ghana currently has three producing offshore oil fields in the Western Basin and continues to pursue strategies aimed at expanding exploration and increasing investment across the energy sector.
The Global Energy Summit, themed “Capitalising on Canada’s Energy Leadership,” brings together government officials, industry leaders, investors and technology experts to discuss developments shaping the future of the global energy industry.
