A group picture of some participants with Christian Li
Vivo Energy Ghana PLC, the exclusive marketer of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants, has marked its 2026 Safety Day and Awards at the Airport City Shell service station in Accra with a renewed call for preparedness across the petroleum industry.
Held under the theme, “Prepare to Respond,” the event brought together employees, regulators, industry leaders, business partners and the media to reinforce the company’s commitment to Health, Safety, Security, Environment and Quality — HSSEQ.
Speaking at the ceremony, Managing Director, Christian Li, said safety must be deliberate, not left to chance.
“The future of safety will not be defined by luck, but by preparation. Safety does not happen by accident; it is deliberate, disciplined, and a collective responsibility,” he said.
He noted that Vivo Energy Ghana’s safety culture is anchored on its values of Safety, Excellence, Caring, Respect and Integrity, and reflected in over 5,600 “Goal Zero” days with zero harm.
The theme was particularly relevant given recent industry concerns. Engagements by the National Petroleum Authority and the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies have highlighted tanker accidents, fuel siphoning at accident scenes, and the need for stronger safety practices in the downstream sector.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Environmental Protection Agency, Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, commended Vivo Energy for its leadership. She said preparedness must go beyond emergency response to include prevention, compliance and environmental protection.
“Preparing to respond means preparing to prevent. Together, by fostering a culture of compliance, vigilance and safety, we can protect our people, preserve our environment, and secure a sustainable future,” she stated.
Chamber Of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) Board Chairman, Gabriel Kumi, in a goodwill message, said effective safety requires strong leadership, robust systems and continuous learning.
“Safety remains a shared responsibility. Our actions, decisions, inactions, and preparedness can make a meaningful difference when situations demand a response,” he noted.
A panel discussion featuring the Ghana National Fire Service, COMAC, transporters and retailers explored how the value chain can strengthen emergency preparedness, risk management and communication.
Panellists stressed continuous training, strict adherence to procedures and collaboration as key to preventing and managing incidents.
The highlight was the Safety Awards, which honoured employees, transporters, contractors and retailers who demonstrated outstanding commitment to safety and operational discipline.
The awardees were recognised for supporting Vivo Energy’s Goal Zero ambition.
Vivo Energy said Safety Day is not a one-off event but part of a continuous effort to embed safety in all operations. With a vision to be Africa’s most respected energy business, the company pledged to work with employees, regulators, partners and transporters to strengthen safety standards and ensure everyone returns home safely each day.
A Business Desk Report