GRIDCo requires strong leadership to drive development – AFRICOM President

The President of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), Abednego Orstin Rawlings, has underscored the need for visionary leadership at the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), aligning with the aspirations of its workforce.

According to Mr. Rawlings, many employees believe the next Chief Executive Officer should be a dedicated professional who understands GRIDCo’s operations and shares the vision of former President John Mahama and the NDC Reset Agenda.

He emphasized that the success of this agenda, alongside the broader economic recovery plan outlined in the NDC manifesto, depends on having a leader whose objectives align with the party’s development strategy.

Recognizing the national grid as a crucial component of Ghana’s power sector, staff members cautioned that ineffective leadership at GRIDCo could disrupt electricity supply, even when generation capacity is sufficient.

To ensure efficiency, Mr. Rawlings advised President Mahama to appoint a competent leader who can harness the full potential of GRIDCo’s workforce.

He also raised concerns that, over the past eight years, known NDC loyalists within GRIDCo had been sidelined, while strategic positions were reportedly given to individuals aligned with the NPP.

He warned that overlooking the interests of employees could negatively impact the incoming administration’s ability to manage the national grid effectively.

Workers at GRIDCo have voiced dissatisfaction over several issues, including lack of transparency in promotions, exclusion of perceived NDC supporters from management roles, unjust transfers, and limited access to training opportunities. Mr. Rawlings stated that these challenges have significantly affected staff morale since 2017.

“If these concerns are not addressed, the next NDC administration may find itself relying on individuals whose priorities may not align with its vision, creating difficulties in the energy sector,” he cautioned.

Following his engagements with GRIDCo staff, Mr. Rawlings noted that the organization already has experienced professionals who have played key roles in the expansion of the national grid.

He highlighted that these individuals possess the technical expertise and industry connections necessary to advance GRIDCo’s mission and ensure stable power transmission under the NDC government.

While GRIDCo is primarily known for its system operations, Mr. Rawlings stressed that its responsibilities extend beyond that, and concerns have been raised over the exclusion of NDC-aligned professionals from critical operational roles.

He reiterated that the appointment of a CEO with deep knowledge of the sector, including investment opportunities, technical operations, and regulatory frameworks, is crucial.

Without such leadership, he warned, Ghana could face electricity supply challenges, as an outsider might be forced to rely on the current management, whose commitment to the NDC’s Reset Agenda remains uncertain.