Ghana’s Green Transition: Ministers to Adopt Electric Vehicles
In a significant move towards sustainability, the Government of Ghana has announced that ministers of state will soon begin using electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its broader green transition initiative. This development was revealed by Mr. John Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, during his half-year report on the country’s energy sector.
The announcement was made at the Government Accountability Series press conference held at the Presidency in Accra. The series, organized by the Presidency Communications Bureau, aims to enhance transparency and accountability in governance. During the event, Mr. Jinapor highlighted the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability through the introduction of EVs.
Launch of the EV Promotion Programme
Mr. Jinapor explained that the government recently launched an EV promotion programme, which involves the use of solar power for charging these vehicles. He emphasized that the initiative is part of a larger effort to modernize the energy sector and address both technical and financial challenges.
“The government has already started importing EVs for various agencies, and we plan to roll this out to other departments and heads of agencies,” he said. “Soon, you will see ministers driving EV vehicles, powered entirely by solar energy.”
He also mentioned that the government intends to collaborate with the private sector to extend the use of EVs to commercial drivers and other users, making them a common sight across the nation.
Stabilization of the Energy Sector
In addition to the EV initiative, Mr. Jinapor shared positive developments in the energy sector. He noted that the country is witnessing a stabilization and improvement in power supply, driven by ongoing reforms and infrastructure upgrades.
“Power outages, which were a persistent issue when we took office earlier this year, have significantly improved,” he stated. “You can now attest to the fact that we are experiencing a reliable and uninterrupted supply of power.”
Mr. Jinapor highlighted a recent example where ENI was upgrading its facility to increase gas production. Some individuals spread rumors about potential nationwide power outages. However, through collaboration with stakeholders and the technical team, the operation was completed without any disruption.
“Fortunately, we were able to conduct the operation successfully without switching even one megawatt off,” he said.
Future Outlook
The government’s focus on green initiatives reflects a broader vision for sustainable development. By integrating renewable energy sources such as solar power into daily operations, Ghana is taking meaningful steps toward reducing its carbon footprint.
As the EV programme expands, it is expected to not only benefit government agencies but also encourage private sector participation. This shift aligns with global trends in clean energy and could position Ghana as a leader in sustainable practices within the African continent.
With continued efforts to improve infrastructure and promote environmental responsibility, the country is setting a strong foundation for a greener future.