Ampain:Western Region The Ghana National Gas Company (Ghana Gas) has issued a warning to fisherfolk in coastal communities within the Western Region to refrain from tampering with or damaging the special marker buoys set up along its offshore gas pipeline. Such actions are considered threats to human life, national energy security, and the environment.
According to Ghana Web, this warning was communicated during a stakeholder sensitisation event held at the AYA Community Centre in Ampain, Ellembelle District. The event, which took place on October 15, 2026, was part of Ghana Gas' ongoing efforts to engage with communities to protect its offshore infrastructure. This infrastructure is crucial as it transports processed gas from the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant for power generation and industrial use across Ghana.
The company emphasized that the marker buoys are strategically placed to mark the pipeline's route at sea, acting as warnings for fishing vessels and other sea users to avoid the restricted area. Damage to these buoys could lead to pipeline ruptures, gas leaks, fires, and severe environmental harm, as well as nationwide power supply disruptions.
During the forum, participants called for stricter penalties for those damaging the buoys, arguing that current deterrents are insufficient. Some suggested that local fisherfolk be enlisted to aid the Ghana Navy and Marine Police in monitoring the area, leveraging their daily presence at sea to identify potential threats.
John Kofi Fayemi, Ghana Gas Senior Manager for Community Relations and CSR, expressed gratitude to the participants and promised to pass their suggestions to management. He reiterated the company's commitment to engaging with stakeholders to protect the buoys and highlighted various corporate social responsibility projects undertaken by Ghana Gas in the region.
Participants acknowledged the strengthened trust between Ghana Gas and the fishing communities, viewing themselves as partners in safeguarding the offshore infrastructure.