Kombat’s Vision and Expertise, A Game-Changer for TOR

The appointment of Edmond B. Kombat as Deputy Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) represents a critical turning point for Ghana’s downstream energy sector. With a proven track record in energy policy, financial markets, and corporate strategy, Mr. Kombat brings not just experience but also a bold vision for transforming TOR into a national asset capable of driving Ghana’s energy security and economic growth.

A Legacy of Financial and Strategic Impact

Mr. Kombat is no stranger to TOR’s challenges. In his previous role as Special Assistant to the Managing Director, he played a pivotal role in securing $110 million in investments and implementing operational reforms that saved Ghana an estimated $300 million. These achievements underscore his ability to navigate the complex intersection of energy strategy and financial management.

As Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Kombat is expected to tackle TOR’s longstanding challenges, including its outdated infrastructure, erratic crude oil supply, and financial instability. His focus on modernization and efficiency is anticipated to reinvigorate the refinery, enabling it to operate closer to its installed capacity of 45,000 barrels per day, a milestone that could reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported petroleum products.

Economic Impact: A Catalyst for Growth

Revitalizing TOR is not just about energy—it’s about Ghana’s broader economic trajectory. A fully operational and efficient refinery would:

• Boost Domestic Production: Increasing the production of refined petroleum products would reduce Ghana’s import bill, strengthening the cedi and improving the country’s trade balance.
• Create Jobs: Infrastructure upgrades and increased operations at TOR are expected to create skilled and unskilled job opportunities, benefiting local communities.
• Attract Investments: A financially stable and modernized TOR could attract international investors, further boosting Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector.
• Enhance Energy Security: With global oil prices becoming increasingly volatile, a robust TOR would ensure a stable supply of petroleum products for domestic consumption.

Leveraging Global Experience for Local Solutions

Mr. Kombat’s diverse experience equips him with a unique perspective on addressing TOR’s challenges. As a co-founder of the Institute for Energy Security (IES) and a financial analyst with Bank of America Merrill Lynch in London, he has worked on projects across South Africa, Tanzania, and Mozambique, gaining insights into best practices for refinery operations and energy resilience.

His advocacy for structural reforms and policy-driven solutions is expected to bring much-needed strategic direction to TOR. By improving crude procurement processes and introducing innovative funding mechanisms, Mr. Kombat aims to position the refinery as a cornerstone of Ghana’s energy infrastructure.

Strategic Vision: TOR as a Symbol of National Pride

For Mr. Kombat, TOR is more than a refinery—it’s a symbol of Ghana’s potential in the energy sector. He envisions a refinery that not only meets domestic demand but also competes regionally as a hub for refined petroleum products.

“I am strongly committed to repositioning TOR as a symbol of operational excellence, financial sustainability, and national pride,” Mr. Kombat said. “With teamwork, innovation, and resilience, we can transform TOR into a backbone of Ghana’s energy sector.”

The Road Ahead

Mr. Kombat’s appointment comes at a time when Ghana is seeking to bolster its energy security amid increasing fuel consumption and fluctuating global oil prices. His expertise in securing international investments, coupled with his focus on operational efficiency, is expected to bring long-term stability to TOR.