Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, has commissioned rural electrification projects in 13 new communities within the Central Gonja District of the Savanna Region, as part of government’s efforts to achieve universal electricity access across Ghana.
The newly connected communities include Zomlampe, Nikpegu, Torope, Dokope, Kpatinyan, Darivogupe, Bagpe, Dawunipe, Diwurupe, Larigbani, Mammudupe, Sankaupe, and Nyinyape.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Jinapor said the initiative forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s vision to extend reliable and affordable power to every part of the country.
“Ghana currently has about 90% electricity access, one of the highest rates in Africa, and we are determined to reach 100%. No community should be left in the dark,” he said.
The Minister urged residents to support the sustainability of the project through timely payment of electricity bills.
“While government is doing its part by expanding electricity access, citizens must also play their roles by paying for the power they consume. That’s how we keep the lights on,” he noted.
Addressing concerns from consumers in Tamale, Hon. Jinapor acknowledged ongoing challenges in bill settlement but emphasized fairness in enforcement.
“Those unable to pay will be placed on a payment plan, but illegal connections must stop. They damage transformers and affect entire communities,” he cautioned.
He further disclosed that government is implementing a Loss Reduction Programme to curb both technical and commercial losses in the power sector.
According to Hon. Jinapor, NEDCo’s improved collections and a 10% reduction in system losses are proof that the strategy is working.
