Public Sector Participation Crucial for Efficiency in Ghana’s Energy Sector – Jinapor

Energy Minister-designate John Abdulai Jinapor has called for greater private sector involvement in the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to address inefficiencies and improve the reliability and accessibility of power distribution across the nation. He noted that private sector participation is critical to modernizing ECG’s operations and meeting the growing energy demands of Ghanaian households and businesses.

Speaking on Monday, January 13, during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Mr. Jinapor emphasized that any such move would require a well-structured, transparent, and inclusive process. “We firmly believe that private sector participation is essential to unlocking the full potential of the Electricity Company of Ghana,” he stated. “To achieve this, we must establish a framework that is not only robust and comprehensive but also aligned with global best practices and sensitive to local needs.”

Mr. Jinapor revealed plans to set up a seven-member committee tasked with designing this framework. The committee will include technical experts, legal professionals, financial analysts, key industry players, and a representative from the consumer side to ensure a balanced approach. “This is not just about efficiency in operations,” he explained, “but also about ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders, including the end-users of electricity, are heard and considered.”

The proposed committee’s work will involve a thorough evaluation of potential models for private sector involvement, such as a concession arrangement or outright privatization. The goal, Mr. Jinapor noted, is to identify the most suitable option that aligns with the national interest and ensures long-term sustainability in ECG’s operations.

Importantly, Mr. Jinapor assured the Committee that the entire process would be insulated from political interference. “This initiative is about securing the future of Ghana’s energy sector,” he said. “Our focus will remain on creating an environment where private sector players can bring in the necessary investment, technology, and expertise to complement ECG’s mandate while ensuring that the interests of the Ghanaian people are safeguarded.”

He further emphasized the government’s commitment to stakeholder engagement and transparency throughout the process. The Minister-designate assured Ghanaians that no decisions would be made hastily or without input from all relevant parties, including regulatory bodies, energy sector workers, and consumers.

In conclusion, Mr. Jinapor expressed optimism about the transformative potential of this initiative. He highlighted how similar collaborations have yielded significant improvements in power distribution systems in other countries and underscored his belief that Ghana can achieve similar success with a carefully executed plan.

“This is an opportunity to position the ECG as a leader in the energy sector, capable of delivering world-class services to Ghanaians,” Mr. Jinapor said. “By working together, we can build a future where reliable and affordable electricity is no longer a challenge but a guarantee for all.”