The recent assertion by the Minority NPP that “DUMSOR IS BACK” and that President Mahama did not fix it is not only misleading but also fails to acknowledge the significant efforts made by the Mahama administration to address Ghana’s power challenges. It is essential to provide a factual and balanced analysis of the power sector during President John Dramani Mahama’s first term and the subsequent Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration to understand their respective contributions to stabilizing power in Ghana.
POWER CHALLENGES DURING MAHAMA’S ADMINISTRATION
During President Mahama’s first term, Ghana faced severe power outages, commonly known as “DUMSOR.” The situation was dire, with frequent blackouts affecting businesses, households, and the overall economy. However, the Mahama administration took decisive steps to address the crisis:
1. Increased Power Generation: The Mahama administration added significant megawatts to the national grid. Notable projects included the Karpowership, which added 450 MW, and the Atuabo Gas Plant, which contributed 110 MW. Additionally, the completion of the Bui Dam added 400 MW to the grid.
2. Investment in Renewable Energy: The administration also invested in renewable energy projects, such as the Nzema Solar Power Plant, which added 155 MW.
3. Infrastructure Development: The Mahama administration focused on improving the transmission and distribution infrastructure to ensure efficient power delivery. This included upgrading existing facilities and constructing new substations.
4. Ghana Gas Achievements: The establishment of the Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) was a significant achievement of the Mahama administration. The Atuabo Gas Processing Plant, completed in 2014, processes natural gas from the Jubilee Fields, providing a reliable source of fuel for power generation.
5. AMERI Power Plant: The Mahama administration procured the AMERI Power Plant under a build-own-operate and transfer arrangement to produce a total of 250 megawatts of power. This plant was later moved from Takoradi to Kumasi to stabilize power in the Ashanti Region.
POWER SECTOR UNDER AKUFO-ADDO-BAWUMIA ADMINISTRATION
The Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration inherited a relatively stable power sector but faced its own set of challenges:
1. Continuation of Projects: The administration continued some of the projects initiated by the Mahama administration, such as the Karpowership and the Atuabo Gas Plant.
2. PDS Scandal: One of the most significant setbacks during the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration was the Power Distribution Services (PDS) deal. The deal, intended to manage Ghana’s electricity distribution, was terminated due to alleged irregularities and fraud. This mismanagement led to frequent power outages and further strained the economy.
3. Increased Power Generation: The administration added some megawatts to the national grid, including the commissioning of the Early Power Plant, which added 400 MW.
4. Challenges in the Energy Sector: Despite these efforts, the administration struggled with maintaining a stable power supply. Frequent power outages continued to affect businesses and households, raising concerns about the effectiveness of their policies.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
When comparing the two administrations, it is clear that both made efforts to address Ghana’s power challenges. However, the Mahama administration’s proactive approach in increasing power generation, investing in renewable energy, and improving infrastructure had a more significant impact on stabilizing the power sector. The establishment of the Ghana National Gas Company and the completion of the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant were notable achievements that provided a reliable source of fuel for power generation.
In contrast, the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration faced setbacks, such as the PDS scandal, which undermined their efforts to stabilize the power sector. While they continued some of the projects initiated by the previous administration, their overall impact on the power sector was less significant.
NPP’S STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS
In the NPP’s “True State of the Nation Address” delivered on March 3, 2025, the party criticized the current administration for the resurgence of power outages and other national issues. They argued that the Mahama administration did not fully resolve the “Dumsor” crisis and claimed that the Akufo-Addo administration had made significant strides in reducing the sector’s debt and improving power stability. However, the NPP also acknowledged the ongoing challenges and called for the publication of a load-shedding timetable to help businesses plan and minimize losses.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS
To address the ongoing power challenges and move beyond the unnecessary daily mention of “Dumsor” against the NDC, the following recommendations are proposed:
1. Transparent Governance: Ensure transparency and accountability in all power sector deals to prevent scandals like the PDS deal.
2. Investment in Renewable Energy: Continue investing in renewable energy projects to diversify the energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
3. Infrastructure Development: Prioritize the improvement of transmission and distribution infrastructure to ensure efficient power delivery.
4. Public Awareness: Educate the public on the achievements and challenges faced by both administrations to provide a balanced perspective on the power sector.
5. Collaborative Efforts: Encourage collaboration between political parties to develop long-term solutions for Ghana’s power challenges, focusing on sustainable development and energy security.
In conclusion, while both administrations made efforts to address Ghana’s power challenges, the Mahama administration’s proactive approach and significant achievements in increasing power generation and improving infrastructure had a more substantial impact on stabilizing the power sector. It is essential to acknowledge these efforts and work towards a collaborative and transparent approach to ensure a stable and reliable power supply for all Ghanaians.
As Chinua Achebe wisely said, “We cannot trample upon the humanity of others without devaluing our own.” This sentiment underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions made by each administration.
Fusaini Isah’s Dogomba Wise Proverb reminds us, “If you think that there is no gravity, jump; let us see if you will suspend.” This highlights the reality of the challenges we face and the need for practical solutions.
The Bible teaches us in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This encourages us to seek divine guidance and wisdom in our efforts to address the power challenges.
An international quotation to consider: “The wealth of a nation lies in its resources and the wisdom to manage them.” By working together and leveraging our collective wisdom, we can ensure a stable and prosperous future for all Ghanaians.
Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
