The appointment of Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo as the Acting Chief Executive of the Volta River Authority (VRA) has been met with resounding endorsement from Nana Kobina Nketsia IV, President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs and Omanhene of Essikado Traditional Area. Nana Nketsia IV lauded President Mahama’s decision, emphasizing Obeng-Kenzo’s extensive experience and exceptional leadership within the VRA as key qualifications for the role. This affirmation came during a courtesy visit by Obeng-Kenzo and a VRA delegation to the Essikado Palace, a meeting intended to introduce the Acting Chief Executive and discuss operational matters concerning the Aboadze thermal energy generation enclave. The visit, rich in traditional protocol, underscored the importance of the VRA’s role in the region and the respect accorded to its new leader.
The visit to the Essikado Palace was more than just a formal introduction. It served as a platform for Nana Nketsia IV to publicly acknowledge Obeng-Kenzo’s significant contributions to the energy sector, particularly his pivotal role in mitigating the 2013-2016 energy crisis. Nana Nketsia IV, who has prior experience as a VRA Board Member, recalled Obeng-Kenzo’s early days as a young engineer at the Aboadze Thermal Plant over two decades ago, highlighting the arc of his career and his consistent dedication to the VRA. The ceremonial seating offered to Obeng-Kenzo, a tradition reserved for esteemed guests, along with a libation performed in his honor, further emphasized the respect and recognition bestowed upon him by the traditional leadership. This ceremonial recognition not only honored Obeng-Kenzo’s past achievements but also served as a symbolic gesture of support for his future leadership.
Nana Nketsia IV’s praise extended beyond Obeng-Kenzo’s individual contributions to encompass the broader role of the VRA in Ghana’s national development. He commended the dedication and skill of the VRA staff, particularly the engineers, recognizing their commitment to ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for the nation. He also acknowledged the VRA’s contributions beyond electricity generation, including its educational initiatives, corporate social responsibility programs, and community support, specifically mentioning the VRA Hospital as a prime example of the Authority’s commitment to the well-being of Ghanaians. This holistic view of the VRA’s contributions underscores its multifaceted impact on the nation’s development and social fabric.
Furthermore, Nana Nketsia IV expressed his hope that the VRA would remain insulated from political interference, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its focus on its core mission of providing reliable energy to the nation. He underscored the VRA’s critical role in national progress and stressed the need for its team to remain unified and dedicated to its mandate, free from the potentially disruptive influence of partisan politics. This appeal for non-partisanship highlights the importance of maintaining the VRA’s integrity and operational effectiveness for the benefit of the entire nation.
The visit also facilitated a dialogue on challenges facing the VRA, specifically those relating to community relations. Obeng-Kenzo, having congratulated Nana Nketsia IV on his election as President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, appealed for his intervention in resolving chieftaincy disputes and community unrest affecting VRA operations. He emphasized the disruptive impact of these conflicts, citing staff anxiety and operational disruptions that hinder the VRA’s ability to effectively provide electricity. This request underscored the interconnectedness of the VRA’s operations with the social and political landscape of the communities it serves.
In conclusion, the meeting between Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo and Nana Kobina Nketsia IV represents more than just a courtesy call. It symbolizes a shared understanding of the vital role the VRA plays in Ghana’s development and the importance of strong leadership and community harmony in ensuring the Authority’s continued success. The endorsement from a respected traditional leader, coupled with a frank discussion of challenges, sets a positive tone for Obeng-Kenzo’s tenure as Acting Chief Executive and reinforces the VRA’s commitment to serving the nation. The emphasis on experience, collaboration, and community engagement suggests a forward-looking approach to addressing the complex issues facing the energy sector in Ghana.
