Stakeholders in the oil and gas industry have praised Ghana's only indigenous upstream energy company, Springfield Exploration and Production Limited (SEP), for their consistent efforts and investment of millions of dollars in the industry to create and sustain jobs for Ghanaians.

In their view, Springfield's unwavering commitment in the face of challenges that often lead to the downfall of others in less capital-intensive sectors is a testament to the ability of Ghanaians to achieve great feats when provided with necessary support.

These sentiments were expressed by Chief Fishermen in the coastal districts of the Western Region and other institutional role players when the company gathered hundreds of them to share crucial information on its ongoing Well-Test and Appraisal of the Afina-1x discovery at the West Cape Three Points Block 2 (WCTP 2) last week.

The planned test began with the company securing the services of the Northern Oceans Deep Sea Bollsta Rig, a semi-submersible rig with a strong track record of drilling in deep to ultra-deep waters. On Thursday, October 17, 2024 the rig arrived at the Afina-1x Well and operations began.

Subsequently, Springfield has invested over $60 million in the current operations and has assembled a team of industry experts to ensure a successful outcome.

The company's previous success in drilling the Afina Well sets the stage for a positive campaign outcome projected to last six weeks. Local and international blue-chip operators in the energy sub-sector supply chain are involved in the latest campaign.

During the engagement forum, Nana Kweku Amosa, a fisherman from the Jomoro District, commended Kevin Okyere, Chief Executive Officer of Springfield, for his visionary leadership and courage in venturing into an area traditionally dominated by foreigners.

He emphasised the need for collective support from all well-meaning Ghanaians and foreigners to help unlock Ghana's offshore crude oil assets for development.

He pledged to work alongside others in the fishing industry to support Springfield's efforts, highlighting the pride felt by the local community
in a local company like Springfield contracting the Deep Sea Bollsta Rig.

Presenting the rig's work program to participants, Kennedy Noonoo, Corporate Affairs Manager of the company, assured that the rig would adhere to the stipulated time frame and urged Chief Fishermen and fishmongers to share the information with their communities upon returning to their landing beaches.

Representatives from GNPC, the Petroleum Commission, the Fisheries Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Marine Police Unit of the Ghana Police Service, and the Ghana Navy were present to offer advice and address concerns raised by participants.