Accra, Ghana – In a significant step toward strengthening Ghana’s energy infrastructure, the Government of Ghana has signed a $13.44 million grant agreement with Japan to enhance power supply in Tamale. The agreement, facilitated through Japan’s International Cooperation Agency (JICA), marks a milestone in the Northern Region’s bilateral relations and energy sector development.
The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, signed on behalf of Ghana, while Her Excellency Suzuki Momoko, Chief Representative of JICA Ghana Office, represented the Government of Japan. The grant is expected to fund critical upgrades to power transmission and distribution networks, improving reliability and efficiency in the Tamale metropolis and surrounding areas.
The partnership aligns with Ghana’s broader energy sector strategy, which focuses on expanding electricity access, modernizing infrastructure, and fostering sustainable economic development. It also reinforces Japan’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s energy and industrial growth, as demonstrated by previous collaborations in infrastructure development.
According to Dr. Forson, the initiative will play a pivotal role in meeting growing electricity demands in Northern Ghana while reducing power fluctuations that have hindered industrial and commercial activities. He appreciated Japan’s continuous support in advancing Ghana’s developmental agenda.
Her Excellency Suzuki Momoko reiterated Japan’s dedication to strengthening Ghana’s energy resilience, emphasizing that a stable electricity supply is essential for economic transformation and improved livelihoods.
This grant builds on previous JICA-funded projects in Ghana’s energy sector, including improvements to the country’s power transmission systems and renewable energy initiatives. The agreement is expected to pave the way for future collaborations between Ghana and Japan in energy and infrastructure development.
The project’s implementation will be overseen by the Ministry of Energy in partnership with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo). The improvements are expected to benefit thousands of households and businesses, ensuring a more stable and efficient power supply in the Tamale area.
