Ghana has called on ECOWAS member states to prioritize regional integration and multilateral partnerships to address the region’s persistent energy challenges.
This call was made by Ghanaian Minister of Energy Herbert Krapa during the opening of the 9th ECOWAS Regional Electricity Regulation Forum (ER-ERA) on Wednesday in Accra.
Minister Krapa emphasized that energy security in the subregion requires a comprehensive approach, considering geopolitical dynamics, promoting sustainable development, and fostering regional cooperation.
He highlighted the crucial need for secure electricity trade within the ECOWAS region, despite its significant potential and existing challenges.
The forum, themed “Geopolitical Dynamics and Energy Security: Implications for the Subregion,” provided a platform for energy experts to identify best practices and opportunities to build and secure a regional electricity market in ECOWAS.
Participants included representatives from energy ministries, parliamentarians, academics, researchers, consumer groups, regulators, operators, investors, civil society groups, as well as financial and technical partners.
They discussed mechanisms for resolving disputes and implementing electricity trade agreements in the region and analyzed the role of national policies in shaping electricity trade security in the ECOWAS region.
This collaborative effort aims to enhance regional energy security and promote sustainable economic development across the sub region.
Report by Dede Davies
