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Government Targets 99.9% Electricity Access by 2030 as Awurahae, Sapor Receive Power After Decades

Introduction

The Ghanaian government has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving near-universal electricity access, setting an ambitious target to increase national coverage from the current 89.03% to approximately 99.9% by 2030. This strategic goal was highlighted during a significant ceremony in the Eastern Region, where two communities, Awurahae and Sapor, were connected to the national grid for the first time in their history. This move underscores a broader national strategy to bridge the energy gap in underserved rural areas, thereby fostering socio-economic development and improving the quality of life for thousands of citizens.

Key Points

Background

Energy poverty has long been a challenge in remote parts of Ghana, where communities remain disconnected from the national grid despite the proximity to major power sources. Awurahae and Sapor, located just a few kilometers from the Akosombo Hydropower Dam, serve as poignant examples of this disparity. For decades, these communities relied on alternative, often expensive and unreliable, sources of light, which stifled economic activity and educational development.

The Asuogyaman Constituency, situated in the Eastern Region, has historically faced infrastructure deficits. The lack of electricity in Awurahae, a fishing and aquaculture hub, meant that residents could not preserve their catch, often selling at low prices to avoid spoilage. Similarly, Sapor faced a chronic shortage of teachers, as educators were unwilling to stay in a community without basic amenities like electricity. The commissioning of these projects marks a turning point in the region’s development trajectory.

Project Details and Implementation

The electrification initiative was spearheaded by the Member of Parliament for Asuogyaman, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, who also serves as the Deputy Minister for Finance. The project execution faced significant logistical hurdles due to the challenging terrain of the area.

Technical Specifications

To ensure a reliable and durable power supply, specific technical measures were undertaken:

• Network Extension: A 2.4-kilometre extension from the Kudi Junction was constructed to reach Awurahae.
• Transformer Installation: A 100 kVA distribution transformer was installed to manage the load for the community.
• Cabling: The project utilized 120 sqmm aluminium conductors for the medium-voltage network and Aerial Bundled Cables (ABC) for the low-voltage network to ensure safety and resilience.

Financial and Collaborative Efforts

The project, initiated in 2024 and completed in 2025, was largely self-funded with support from key stakeholders. The total cost stood at GH¢3.05 million. The Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition provided technical and financial support. Notably, community members contributed through volunteer labor, demonstrating local ownership of the project.

Analysis: The Broader Impact on Rural Development

The connection of Awurahae and Sapor to the national grid is not merely an infrastructure project; it is a catalyst for socio-economic transformation. The availability of electricity acts as a foundation for modern living and economic competitiveness.

Boosting Local Economies

For Awurahae, a community centered on fishing, electrification unlocks new economic potential. The ability to use refrigeration means fishermen can preserve their catch, reducing post-harvest losses and allowing them to command better market prices. This stability encourages investment in aquaculture and agriculture, potentially transforming the local economy from subsistence to commercial levels.

Educational Transformation

In Sapor, the lack of electricity was a primary driver of teacher attrition. Educators posted to the area often left within months due to the lack of basic living conditions. With power now available, the government plans to construct a six-unit teachers’ bungalow. This infrastructure, combined with the ability for students to study at night, is expected to drastically improve literacy rates and educational retention in the constituency.

Practical Advice

For communities awaiting similar development or residents in newly electrified areas, here are steps to maximize the benefits of grid connection:

For Residents and Business Owners

1. Energy Efficiency: As you transition to grid power, utilize energy-efficient appliances (e.g., LED bulbs, energy-saving refrigerators) to keep electricity bills manageable.

2. Safety First: Ensure that all wiring within homes and businesses is done by certified electricians to prevent fire hazards and electrical faults.

3. Economic Planning: Entrepreneurs should explore value-added activities. For instance, fishermen can look into processing and packaging fish rather than selling raw, which commands higher prices.

For Community Leaders

1. Maintenance Committees: Establish a local committee to liaise with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) regarding metering and maintenance to ensure quick resolution of faults.

2. Security: With improved infrastructure, community policing initiatives should be strengthened to protect the new assets, such as the distribution transformer.

FAQ

Conclusion

The electrification of Awurahae and Sapor serves as a microcosm of the Ghanaian government’s broader objective to achieve 99.9% electricity access by 2030. While the project highlights the significant challenges of rural infrastructure—including high costs and difficult terrain—it also demonstrates the transformative power of energy access. By turning on the lights in these long-neglected communities, the government has not only provided power but has also ignited hope for economic revitalization and educational advancement. Continued investment and maintenance will be essential to sustain this progress and ensure that no community is left in the dark.