BOST deepens ties with SONABHY to enhance cross-border petroleum supply

The Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BOST) has renewed its with Burkina Faso’s National Hydrocarbons Company (SONABHY) to enhance cross-border petroleum trade and strengthen sub-regional energy security. The engagement follows the restoration of diplomatic ties between Ghana and Burkina Faso, facilitated by President John Dramani Mahama.

At a high-level meeting in Accra, the two state-owned entities agreed to establish a joint technical team to assess BOST’s operational capacity and explore new opportunities for efficiency and growth. The collaboration is expected to optimise the flow of petroleum products from Ghana to Burkina Faso, leveraging key infrastructure, including BOST’s Bolgatanga Depot and SONABHY’s recent acquisition of the Blue Ocean Terminal in Tema.

Managing Director of BOST, Mr. Afetsi Awoonor, reaffirmed the company’s readiness to support SONABHY in meeting its energy demands, citing Ghana’s role as a regional energy hub.“BOST remains committed to deepening cooperation with SONABHY to enhance petroleum trade and ensure a more resilient supply chain within the sub-region,” Mr. Awoonor stated. “The strategic use of our pipelines, river barges, the Bolgatanga Depot and the Blue Ocean Terminal will allow for a more efficient fuel distribution network, benefiting both countries,” he added.

He explained that renewed engagement between BOST and SONABHY holds significant economic and strategic benefits, adding that by streamlining petroleum logistics and improving supply chain efficiency, the partnership aims to reduce operational costs and minimise fuel shortages in Burkina Faso.Additionally, the BOST head stated that increased electricity exports could enhance Ghana’s position as a key player in the West African energy market.

SONABHY’s Managing Director, Mr. Wendpanga Aimé, also underscored the importance of the renewed partnership, emphasising his company’s financial and operational strength.“With a capital base of 20 billion CFA Francs, SONABHY is well-positioned to invest in long-term trade agreements with BOST. This partnership is critical to ensuring a stable and cost-effective petroleum supply for Burkina Faso,” Mr. Aimé stated.

The partnership underscored the growing interdependence between Ghana and Burkina Faso in the energy sector, reinforcing the broader objective of regional economic integration and security.

Beyond petroleum supply, Burkina Faso has also appealed to Ghana for increased electricity exports to mitigate its power deficit. As part of the engagement, Burkina Faso’s Energy Minister, Yacouba Zabré Gouba, accompanied by SONABHY officials and executives from the country’s power utility, toured BOST’s Bolgatanga Depot and GRIDCo’s Navrongo substation.

The Burkina Faso delegation urged Ghana to consider increasing power supply to their grid, citing the need for reliable electricity to support economic growth.The Ministry of Energy in collaboration with BOST and GRIDCo, is expected to evaluate the feasibility of expanding electricity transmission to Burkina Faso, further strengthening energy ties between the two nations.