President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has appointed Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Member of Parliament for Effutu, as the new Board Chair of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The appointment, announced on Monday, aims to bring strategic leadership to the state-owned utility provider amid ongoing efforts to improve the country’s energy sector.
Afenyo-Markin, a seasoned lawyer and politician, has served in various capacities within the government and Parliament, gaining a reputation for his dedication to public service and governance. His appointment comes at a crucial time when the ECG is focused on enhancing its operational efficiency and addressing challenges within the electricity distribution network.
In a statement issued by the Presidency, President Akufo-Addo expressed confidence in Afenyo-Markin’s ability to lead the ECG towards achieving its strategic objectives. “Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s extensive experience in public administration and his commitment to excellence make him the ideal candidate to steer the ECG towards greater efficiency and reliability. His leadership will be instrumental in driving the reforms needed to strengthen our electricity distribution system,” the statement read.
Reacting to his appointment, Afenyo-Markin pledged to work diligently to improve the performance of the ECG and ensure that Ghanaians receive reliable and affordable electricity. “I am honored by the trust placed in me by President Akufo-Addo. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues on the Board and the management team to address the challenges facing the ECG and to implement strategies that will enhance our service delivery,” he said.
The appointment has been met with mixed reactions from various stakeholders. Some industry experts and energy sector analysts have welcomed the move, expressing optimism that Afenyo-Markin’s leadership will bring positive changes to the ECG. “Afenyo-Markin’s track record in public service is commendable. His appointment is a step in the right direction, and we hope it will lead to significant improvements in the operations of the ECG,” said Dr. Emmanuel Opoku, an energy policy analyst.
However, others have raised concerns about the political nature of the appointment, arguing that it is essential to prioritize technical expertise in the leadership of key state institutions. “While Afenyo-Markin is a capable leader, the ECG requires a Board Chair with a strong technical background in energy management. It is crucial to ensure that appointments to such positions are based on technical competence to address the complex issues within the sector,” commented Prof. Kwabena Asante, a lecturer in energy economics.
As Afenyo-Markin assumes his new role, he is expected to oversee critical initiatives aimed at reducing power outages, improving customer service, and ensuring the financial sustainability of the ECG. His leadership will also be pivotal in advancing the government’s broader energy sector reforms and attracting investment to boost the country’s electricity infrastructure.
The appointment of Afenyo-Markin as the ECG Board Chair marks a significant development in Ghana’s ongoing efforts to enhance its energy sector. As the nation looks forward to more stable and reliable electricity supply, all eyes will be on Afenyo-Markin to deliver on the expectations and drive the ECG towards achieving its goals.
story filed by: Nana kwaku Duah
