The Centre for Environmental Management and Sustainable Energy (CEMSE) has sounded an urgent alarm over the rampant illegal diversion of premix fuel in Ghana.
Originally intended to support the country’s fishing industry by powering the outboard motors of fishermen, this subsidized fuel is being diverted into the general fuel market, ending up in the vehicles of unsuspecting motorists.
This practice not only deprives fishermen of the fuel they critically need but also threatens the safety of motorists, as the fuel’s poor quality can cause significant damage to car engines.
“Premix fuel is a crucial commodity for Ghana’s fishing community, serving as the lifeblood for the outboard motors that power fishing vessels across the country.
“Recognizing the importance of the fishing industry, the Ghanaian government has long subsidized premix fuel, making it the only fuel product still subsidized since the cancellation of general fuel subsidies in 2015.”
Centre for Environmental Management and Sustainable Energy (CEMSE)
The government’s goal was clear: to support the fisheries sector and improve the welfare of fisherfolk by reducing their operational costs.
However, this well-intentioned policy has been marred by significant challenges, including hoarding, diversion, and overpricing, which have undermined its effectiveness. The diversion of premix fuel is not just an economic issue but also a safety concern.
According to CEMSE, a significant portion of the premix fuel meant for fishermen is being blended with other petroleum products and sold as premium fuel, causing unsuspecting motorists to fill their vehicles with substandard fuel that can damage their engines.
CEMSE’s recent findings are alarming. According to the centre, evidence from public documents reveals that large volumes of premix fuel are being diverted into other markets, with a high likelihood of ending up in vehicles such as gasoline (petrol).
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) reported that premix fuel consumption in 2023 was 34 million litres, a figure that starkly contrasts with the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development’s (MFAD) projected supply of 78 million litres.
This discrepancy suggests that around 13 million litres of premix fuel have been diverted and possibly sold as premium fuel, which is a significant shortfall from what was intended for the fisheries sector.
CEMSE further indicated that this illegal practice not only deprives fishermen of the necessary fuel for their operations but also puts the broader public at risk. The blending of premix fuel with other petroleum products degrades the quality of the fuel, which can lead to severe damage to vehicles’ engines and pose safety risks to motorists.
This situation raises questions about the enforcement of regulations and the ability of authorities to safeguard both the fishing industry and the public.
Impact on Fisherfolk and Motorists
The statement released by CEMSE revealed that the implications of this diversion are far-reaching. For the fishermen, the consequences are immediate and dire.
“The shortage of premix fuel has led to increased operational costs, as fishermen are forced to either pay inflated prices for the fuel or face the prospect of reduced fishing trips.”
Centre for Environmental Management and Sustainable Energy (CEMSE)
CEMSE noted that this has a direct impact on their livelihoods, reducing their income and exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the fishing communities.
Moreover, the government’s goal of supporting the fisheries sector is being thwarted. The subsidy on premix fuel was designed to ensure that fishermen could continue their operations without the burden of high fuel costs.
However, the illegal diversion of this fuel undermines this objective, leaving many fishermen struggling to keep their businesses afloat.
For motorists, the risks are equally significant. Vehicles that run on adulterated fuel suffer from engine damage, leading to costly repairs and potentially dangerous situations on the road.
According to CEMSE, “The unsuspecting motorists who fill their tanks with this substandard fuel are victims of a scheme that prioritizes illegal profit over public safety.”
CEMSE’s call to action is both timely and necessary. The diversion of premix fuel is not just an economic crime but a threat to public safety. It is imperative that the government, through agencies like the NPA and MFAD, takes immediate steps to address this issue.
Stricter monitoring and enforcement of the distribution of premix fuel are needed to ensure that it reaches its intended recipients — the fishermen who rely on it for their livelihoods.
Furthermore, there is a need for increased public awareness. Motorists must be informed about the risks associated with using fuel from unauthorized sources. Education campaigns could help reduce the demand for these illegal products, making it more difficult for those diverting fuel to find a market.
The illegal diversion of premix fuel in Ghana represents a serious challenge to the country’s environmental management and sustainable energy goals. By addressing this issue head-on, policymakers can safeguard the welfare of fishermen, ensure the integrity of the fuel market, and uphold the principles of environmental stewardship and economic responsibility.
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