A two-member delegation from the Canadian High Commission to Ghana on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), Dr. Toni Aubynn, and his two deputies, Onasis Rosely and Halimatu Sadia Abdulai Abu. The visit served as an official welcome to Dr. Aubynn in his new role and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting the Petroleum Hub project.
During their inaugural meeting with the new PHDC management team, Andrew Maharaj, Counsellor (Commercial) and Regional Senior Trade Commissioner, and Peter Fiamor, Trade Commissioner at the Canadian High Commission, conveyed warm congratulations from the High Commissioner to Dr. Aubynn and his deputies on their appointments.
The delegation reiterated the Canadian government’s resolve to partner with the PHDC in the realization of Ghana’s ambition to become the first African country to host a petroleum hub.
Strengthening Ties for Collaborative Growth
In his remarks, Dr. Toni Aubynn expressed sincere appreciation on behalf of his colleagues for the delegation’s visit and kind words. He highlighted that Canada had been strategically identified as a key partner due to its standing as a global leader in the energy sector.
Dr. Aubynn acknowledged the successful collaborations between the PHDC and the Canadian High Commission in the past and emphasized that the current management is eager to foster even more effective collaboration moving forward.
Collaboration on Capacity Building
A key focus of the discussions was the commitment of both the PHDC and the Canadian team to support training and capacity-building initiatives. These initiatives are intended to equip the necessary human resources for the completion and operationalization of the Petroleum Hub project.
Andrew Maharaj outlined several opportunities for training, including technical training for personnel in fabrication and storage, as well as management development programs. He also introduced a special program designed to enhance the skills and capacity of women and minority groups in the sector.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Aubynn reiterated PHDC’s dedication to ensuring significant local participation in the hub project. He emphasized that the PHDC will provide training opportunities not only for residents of Jomoro but for Ghanaians nationwide.
In attendance was also the Senior Manager, Business Development, Abigail Abrokwa, and other PHDC staff members.