Support private sector role in ECG power distribution – Prof Bopkin

Professor Godfred Bopkin, an economist at the University of Ghana Business School, has called for more support for government efforts. He wants to increase private sector participation in the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

On JoyNews' Newsfile programme on May 17, he discussed the importance of leadership. He said that good leaders sometimes need to "tickle people a bit" to drive progress.

“I believe they will make some progress,” he stated.

He pointed out internal issues at ECG, such as procurement challenges and management inefficiencies. He also mentioned political interference as a concern.

Bopkin believes it is time to support government initiatives for private sector involvement in distribution operations. He clarified that this does not mean selling ECG. The government can keep full ownership while allowing private players to contribute.

“Government can still be the sole shareholder of ECG,” he explained. “We should invite the private sector into power distribution and collection.” This would require them to bring capital and efficiency.

Professor Bopkin thinks that involving the private sector strategically could lead to innovation and operational discipline. This change could ultimately benefit consumers and improve the economy.