The government has reiterated its determination to achieve near-universal electricity coverage, pledging to raise the national access rate from the current 89.03 per cent to 99.9 per cent by 2030.
Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan Mensah, said the target is crucial for driving socio-economic growth, especially in communities that have long been underserved.
“Government remains resolute in achieving universal access to electricity, moving beyond the current 89.03 per cent access rate to about 99.9 per cent by 2030,” he stated.
Mr Mensah made the remarks during the commissioning of electrification projects in Awurahae and Sapor, two communities in the Asuogyaman Constituency of the Eastern Region. Despite their proximity to the Akosombo Hydropower Dam, residents had lived without electricity for decades.
Awurahae, a fishing and aquaculture hub with a population of about 200–300, was connected through a 2.4-kilometre extension from Kudi Junction. The project, begun in 2024 and completed in 2025, faced challenges due to difficult terrain.
According to Mr Mensah, the works involved installing a 100 kVA distribution transformer, a medium-voltage network with 120 sqmm aluminium conductors, and a low-voltage network using ABC cables.
“The total project cost stood at GH¢3.05 million, reflecting the distance, terrain and quality standards required to ensure reliable electricity supply,” he added.
He also commended the role of the MP for Asuogyaman and Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, describing his involvement as critical.
“I wish to acknowledge the exceptional leadership and advocacy of the MP for Asuogyaman, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, for his unwavering commitment to this project,” Mr Mensah said.
Commissioned on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, Mr Ampem Nyarko described the electrification as the “biggest Christmas gift” for residents.
“The best Christmas present that President Mahama is giving you today is connecting you to the national grid. This electricity will significantly improve your living conditions,” he declared.
He explained that the initiative was self-financed, with support from the Volta River Authority (VRA), the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, and volunteer labour from locals. Nyarko recalled promising before the 2024 elections to connect the communities if re-elected, a pledge he says has now been honoured within a year of his third term.
Roads, Market and Economic Growth
Beyond electricity, Mr Nyarko assured residents that work continues on the Akosombo–Kudi–Kofe–Gyekiti road, part of government’s “Big Push” infrastructure programme.
“The contractor will remain on site until the final bitumen asphalt overlay is laid to make the road fully motorable,” he said.
He further announced plans for a 24-hour market in Awurahae to boost fishing and trade.
“Now you have light and your road is being worked on, the next step is to establish a thriving market. You can freeze your catch, attract buyers from other areas and stop selling your fish cheaply for fear of spoilage,” he added.
Teacher Accommodation in Sapor
In Sapor, residents cited high teacher attrition due to lack of electricity and amenities. Schools often had to merge classes when teachers left.
Mr Nyarko assured that the situation would change with the new power supply and a planned six-unit teachers’ bungalow.
“This community has suffered very high teacher attrition. One of the major reasons was the absence of electricity,” he said. “We have secured a contract for the construction of six-unit teachers’ bungalows so teachers can live here comfortably. We expect to complete the project in 2026.”
Joy and Gratitude
Residents expressed joy and relief at the long-awaited development.
Awurahae leader Daniel Bisi told JoyNews:
“This electrification will change everything here. Fishing and farming will improve, and people will no longer sell their catch cheaply.”
Assembly Member for Adjinadornir–Sapor, Noah Tetteh, said the project would transform education.
“Now that we have light, teachers will stay, and students can study at night. This is good news for the entire community and for the future of our children,” he said.
Amid drumming, dancing and jubilation, chiefs and residents of both communities expressed gratitude to the government, the Energy Ministry, the VRA and their MP for finally delivering electricity after decades of waiting.
SOURCE; Citinewsroom
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