Energy Expert Kwame Jantuah has expressed his belief that political interference is the primary issue hindering the effective functioning of Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo), the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), and the Volta River Authority (VRA).
Mr. Jantuah emphasized that it is essential for technical persons to be allowed to operate within these institutions without political appointees impeding their performance.
These comments come in response to the recent call by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to diversify GRIDCo, ECG, and VRA. The Asantehene advocated for the privatization of these institutions as a means to enhance their efficiency and productivity.
During the commissioning of a 430-kilometre natural gas pipeline by Genser Energy in Kumasi, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II highlighted the importance of involving the private sector in the operations of these entities. He stressed that privatization would attract more investors, leading to job creation and improved service delivery.
However, Mr. Jantuah raised concerns about whether the private sector has the capacity to take over the management of these critical institutions. He questioned the ability of banks to raise the necessary funds for such ventures and cautioned against potential capital flight.
Furthermore, Mr. Jantuah emphasized the need for technical experts to be in charge of technical institutions to ensure continuity and efficiency, rather than political appointees subject to changes in government.
