On Monday, August 17, 2026, BOST Energies Limited and the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union (GNPTDU) reached a crucial agreement following a protracted three-day strike by tanker drivers at the Kumasi Depot. This agreement marks a significant step towards addressing persistent concerns regarding working conditions at the depot, signaling a potential easing of tensions and improvements in operational infrastructure. The dispute, ignited by issues with the yard’s condition and safety protocols, had prompted the union to initiate a strike, resulting in significant disruption to petroleum supply chains throughout the region. The meeting between BOST Energies’ management and GNPTDU representatives, held in Kumasi, was a pivotal moment in resolving the underlying issues.
The primary source of friction centered around the deteriorating state of the yard where tanker drivers park their vehicles, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. Drivers expressed significant difficulties accessing the area, leading to delays and potential safety hazards. Furthermore, concerns were raised regarding the inadequate rehabilitation of the yard, which impacted operational efficiency and exacerbated existing challenges. As a direct consequence of these issues, the agreement stipulates that the GNPTDU executives in Kumasi are obligated to immediately coordinate the resurfacing of the AG car park to enhance conditions for tanker drivers. BOST Energies has also initiated a contractor to repair a hanging loading arm, with the expected completion date slated for immediate commencement, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the immediate logistical challenges.
In addition to the yard issue, the agreement includes a crucial component regarding meter-to-meter error margin – a matter that has been the subject of considerable scrutiny. The GNPTDU executives are expected to report their findings and recommendations to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) in September 2026. This engagement is a direct response to a previously initiated inquiry, with the aim of ensuring accuracy and transparency in fuel distribution.
The agreement details a contract awarded for the construction of a new car park in Kumasi, with further details to be announced as the project progresses. The agreement also addressed complaints regarding persistent shortages of petroleum products, which the drivers attribute to malfunctioning machinery and equipment used for discharging products from tankers. The drivers highlighted that these shortages were partly linked to faults with equipment and that the latest agreement is expected to alleviate concerns and improve safety, infrastructure, and operational conditions at the Kumasi Depot. The agreement has had a noticeable impact on commercial transport operators in Kumasi, who are reportedly charging additional Gh¢1 amid rising fuel prices, highlighting the economic implications of the situation.
The agreement also reveals a contractual obligation for Allied Heath Council to refrain from assigning medical records duties to receptionists, a move that raises concerns within the healthcare sector. The situation underscores the multifaceted challenges facing the region’s petroleum industry and the ongoing efforts to balance operational needs with safety and regulatory compliance. The full implications of this agreement remain to be fully assessed, but it represents a significant step forward in addressing the concerns raised by the tanker driver strike.”
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Source: Adom Online
