Mahama Announces Fuel Relief Measures Amid Global Oil Price Surge
Government Moves to Ease Fuel Burden as Global Oil Prices Spike
- John Dramani Mahama has announced fuel relief measures to cushion citizens against rising prices.
- Key ministers have been tasked to consider removing some taxes and levies on petroleum products following global oil disruptions
- Plans include expanding Metro Mass Transit services and reducing fares to ease transport costs for commuters
President John Dramani Mahama has instructed key government officials to take immediate steps to ease the burden of rising fuel prices on Ghanaians following global supply disruptions linked to tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The decision was reached during an emergency Cabinet meeting held on Thursday, April 9, shortly after the President returned from an official visit to France.
The recent spike in fuel prices has largely been attributed to the reported closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route, which has disrupted supply chains and pushed up international petroleum costs.
In response, President Mahama has directed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, and the Minister for Energy, John Jinapor, to engage industry stakeholders on possible removal of selected taxes and levies on petroleum products. The measures are expected to begin in the next fuel pricing window.
The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced that the intervention will run for an initial four-week period, after which it will be reviewed based on prevailing economic conditions.
As part of additional relief efforts, the Minister for Transport has been tasked to fast-track the rollout of 100 Metro Mass Transit buses, with directives to reduce fares to make public transport more affordable.
The President also reminded ministers and appointees to strictly comply with the existing ban on fuel allowances as part of wider cost-cutting measures.
The initiative forms part of government’s broader strategy to cushion households and businesses against the impact of rising global fuel prices.
