Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the establishment of two governance structures to facilitate the implementation of the 330 kV double circuit interconnection reinforcement project.
They are the joint technical steering committee and a joint interstate committee, which are said to be critical in ensuring the smooth execution of the project.
The Secretary-General of the West Africa Power Pool, Abdoulaye Dia, who made this known in Accra, said the step taken was proof of the commitment of the two governments towards the success of the project.
The three-day meeting was also used to review an updated technical findings of a feasibility study, the institutional framework that would guide the implementation and governance of the project, and the environmental and social impact assessment which is crucial for ensuring sustainability and community buy-in.
The Deputy Minister of Energy, Richard Gyan-Mensah, who signed the agreement for Ghana, said the strategic initiative did not only seek to reinforce the interconnection between the two countries but also aimed to improve grid stability, enhance operational reliability and provide a robust platform for power exchanges within the West African Power Pool (WAPP) regional market.
He said the project reflected the deepening co-operation between Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire, as well as the shared vision of both governments to create a resilient and integrated regional energy system.
“It is also a clear demonstration of our commitment to achieving the broader goals of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) energy policy and the WAPP Master Plan.
“I want to assure you that the government of Ghana fully supports the operation of this co-operative framework. We are prepared to offer our expertise, resources and institutional backing to guarantee the prompt and successful implementation of the project,” Mr Gyan-Mensah added.
He expressed appreciation to the World Bank for its support over the years and for financing the WAPP project.
The Deputy Minister of Energy for Cote d’Ivoire, Jean-Baptiste Aka K. Kadjo, who also signed for his country, commended Ghana for its efforts towards a more reliable energy sector, and also for the determination and foresight it had demonstrated in advancing regional integration among member states of ECOWAS.
“This is a clear sign of your commitment as a country to a regional energy policy, which is the fundamental basis of a strong and prosperous economy,” he said.
Mr Kadjo expressed confidence that the meeting would help in establishing a solid framework for the timely execution of the project, adding “by working together, I am confident that we will successfully overcome the challenges before us and make significant progress for the benefit of our people”.
For her part, a Senior Energy Specialist, World Bank, Maame Tabuah Ankoh, said the project formed part of the first phase of a multi-phase programmatic approach, which was a new type of financing by the bank to develop projects in pieces.
She said beyond the infrastructure, the project also sought to achieve regional integration, strengthen the course-building collaborations to deliver reliable electricity that supported growth and opportunity for citizens across West Africa.
Maame Ankoh said the establishment of the respective committees was critical in ensuring a smooth and timely execution of the project.