In a swift response to Ghana’s looming power crisis, popularly known as “dumsor,” the Chief of Staff has convened an emergency meeting with key stakeholders in the energy sector. The meeting, held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, follows a directive from President John Dramani Mahama, who was sworn into office just a day earlier.
The high-stakes meeting brought together representatives from critical energy sector entities, including GRIDCo, WAPCo, VRA, GNPC, BOST, and other power generation companies. Its primary goal is to devise immediate and long-term solutions to stabilize the nation’s power supply and avert nationwide blackouts.
Fuel Shortages Spark Urgent Action
The urgency of the situation is underscored by alarming fuel stock levels. AKSA is reported to have only five hours of fuel remaining, while KTPP’s reserves are expected to last just 1.5 days. Asogli, another key power provider, has completely run out of fuel. Although Cenpower has a relatively stable stock projected to last 20.9 days, it cannot single-handedly sustain the nation’s energy needs.
Key Players Mobilize Solutions
John Abdulai Jinapor, Member of Parliament for Yapei-Kusawgu and a former Deputy Energy Minister, revealed that the meeting follows extensive technical work conducted overnight. “Several options have been presented for discussion. His Excellency will be briefed on the progress, and I’m confident he will issue further instructions through the Chief of Staff,” Jinapor stated during a media briefing.
Acting Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu disclosed that a technical committee has been formed to address the crisis. The team, which includes prominent figures such as John Abdulai Jinapor, Emmanuel Kofi Buah, and Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, is expected to present a comprehensive road map to the government by the close of business today.
National Anxiety and Hopes for Resolution
The energy crisis has sparked widespread concern among Ghanaians, as power outages threaten to disrupt daily life and economic activities. Citizens are keenly awaiting the outcomes of these high-level deliberations, hopeful that President Mahama’s administration will act decisively to end the crisis.
The meeting marks a significant step in the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges facing the energy sector. It signals a return to proactive governance under President Mahama, whose leadership in his previous term grappled with similar issues.
As stakeholders work tirelessly to stabilize the situation, the nation remains on edge, eager for solutions that will ensure a consistent and reliable power supply.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson