Current Regulations
LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORK
INTRODUCTION
This page outlines the Ghanaian administrative framework and describes the relevant Ghanaian legislation, international treaties and industry standards that are applicable to the oil and gas sector, particularly the offshore developments.
ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK
An overview of Ghanaian government ministries and the key administrative bodies ie authorities, agencies and commissions with responsibilities related to the oil and gas sector is given below.
- - Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology ? represented through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA);
- - Ministry of Energy ? represented through the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC);
- - Ministry of Transport ? represented through the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA);
- - Ministry of Food and Agriculture ? represented through the Directorate of Fisheries and the Regional Departments of Fisheries; and
- - Fisheries Commission.
The duties and authorities of the relevant administrative bodies within these key Ministries are discussed further below.
Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology
The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology exists to establish a strong national scientific and technology base for accelerated sustainable development of the country to enhance the quality of life for all. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is part of this ministry.
The Environmental Protection Agency
The EPA was established under the Environmental Protection Agency Act (Act 490 of 1994) as the leading public body responsible for the protection and improvement of the environment in Ghana. It is responsible for enforcing environmental policy and legislation, prescribing standards and guidelines, inspecting and regulating businesses and responding to emergency incidents