Electricity finally reaches three Ada East Islands communities

Three island communities in the Ada East District namely Azizakpe, Alorkem, and Aflive have gained access to electricity after the launch of mini-grid electrification projects financed by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).

The initiative is anticipated to markedly enhance productivity, encourage local entrepreneurship, and increase comfort and convenience in these previously underserved areas. The mini-grids mark a significant achievement  in Ghana’s push to increase sustainable energy access to remote communities.

During the commissioning ceremony, John Jinapor, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, revealed that over 3,000 residents will benefit from the project. He also declared that the government intends to expand electricity access to reach 150 additional off-grid island and lake communities.

The step is an integral to a wider approach to extend electricity access to more than 250,000 people throughout the nation as Ghana works in efforts to achieve  universal energy access.

John Jinapor said that “Very soon, we shall launch a bold program, a new program that seeks to bring on board over 250,000 people living across 150 island and lake communities allowing them to also have access to electricity. This is just the tip of the iceberg.”

He added that “We intend to pursue an ambitious and aggressive program where our ultimate objective will be to hook on 150 island and lake communities so that they can also get access to electricity. This initiative will certainly expand the reach of renewable energy to even more underserved areas, accelerating our efforts towards energy equity and inclusion and achieving our primary objective of hitting 99.8% access to electricity in line with our policy of light for life program.”

Simone Giger, Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, also highlighted the need for sustainability in development projects. She encouraged stakeholders to ensure periodic maintenance of the new energy infrastructure to safeguarding the investment and ensure long-term benefits for the communities.

Simone Giger “It would be unfortunate if these mini grids are not properly maintained and operated. I am especially addressing the VRA in this regard as they serve as custodians of these assets. I am confident that we are leaving the mini grids in competent hands.”