Journalists from across the region converged at Hotel Majorie Y in Tema Community 6 on Tuesday, 9th December 2025, for a capacity-building workshop on effective reporting within the energy sector. The training, organised by Energy News Africa Ltd in partnership with the Tema Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), was held under the theme “Leveraging Social Media and AI for Accurate and Effective Energy Reporting.”
The workshop brought together reporters, analysts, and content creators at a time when technological advancements—particularly social media and artificial intelligence—are transforming newsroom operations and shaping public discourse.
Delivering the keynote address, the Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), Edmond Kombat, Esq., underscored the critical role journalists play in shaping public understanding of energy-related issues.
“I know that all of you here speak, analyse, and create content,” he said, emphasising that the credibility of the media rests on ethical and responsible journalism. “Reputation is very important; it is difficult to build, but it can be destroyed within minutes.”
Mr. Kombat urged journalists to prioritise accuracy, balance, and verification in their work. He highlighted the increasing pressure on journalists to publish quickly due to digital media dynamics but cautioned against sacrificing authenticity for speed.
“There is the need for verification—to call ahead and hear the other side of the story,” he noted. “It’s not really about who is the first to break it, but whose story is authentic.”
Touching on the state of Tema Oil Refinery, Mr. Kombat outlined key measures taken to revive the struggling national asset. He explained that upon assuming office, TOR was grappling with heavy debt, stalled operations, and significant staff attrition. Through diagnostic assessments, enhanced staff engagement, and targeted revenue initiatives, the refinery has taken steps toward stabilisation.
A major achievement, he revealed, was the resolution of long-delayed staff promotions. More than 250 eligible workers were upgraded, restoring morale and confidence among the workforces.
Describing TOR as a strategic national institution with vast potential, Mr. Kombat assured the media that efforts to fully restore the refinery are ongoing. He called on journalists to continue reporting responsibly on the energy sector, emphasising that ethical journalism strengthens public trust and contributes to national development.
By Vincent Kwofie
