The President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, has endorsed the appointment of Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo as the Acting Chief Executive of the Volta River Authority (VRA), describing it as a commendable decision by President John Dramani Mahama.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by Mr. Obeng-Kenzo and his delegation to the Essikado Palace, Nana Nketsia V emphasized the engineer’s vast experience and leadership qualities, which he believes make him the right choice to lead Ghana’s foremost energy producer.
The visit provided an opportunity for the VRA leadership to introduce the new acting CEO and discuss key operational matters concerning the Aboadze thermal energy enclave. Accompanying Mr. Obeng-Kenzo were Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Finance) Dr. Ebenezer Tagoe, Director of Thermal Generation Samuel O. Lamptey, and other senior officials, including Manager of Communications and Branding Francis Kobena Abban.
Also present at the meeting were the Paramount Chief of Lower Dixcove and Vice President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Kwesi Agyemang IX, and elders of the Essikado Traditional Area, who warmly welcomed the new VRA leader.
In a show of respect, Mr. Obeng-Kenzo was offered a ceremonial seat reserved for distinguished guests, followed by a traditional libation poured in his honor at the request of Nana Nketsia V.
The esteemed chief, who previously served as a VRA Board Member, recounted Mr. Obeng-Kenzo’s critical role in stabilizing Ghana’s power supply during the 2013–2016 energy crisis. He credited the engineer’s efforts in maintaining the operational efficiency of VRA’s thermal plants, ensuring reliable electricity generation at a time when the nation faced severe power challenges.
“Ghanaians should recognize your contributions during that difficult period,” Nana Nketsia V remarked, recalling his first encounter with Mr. Obeng-Kenzo as a young engineer at the Aboadze Thermal Plant over two decades ago.
Encouraging him to steer the VRA with a commitment to efficiency and teamwork, Nana Nketsia V expressed confidence that Obeng-Kenzo’s leadership would leave a lasting impact, potentially earning him future recognition among the Authority’s celebrated engineers.
Beyond power generation, Nana Nketsia V commended VRA’s contributions to national development, particularly in education, community support initiatives, and healthcare, noting that the VRA Hospital remains one of the country’s top medical facilities.
He also urged the new VRA boss to ensure that the Authority remains free from partisan influences and continues to deliver on its national mandate.
In response, Mr. Obeng-Kenzo congratulated Nana Nketsia V on his election as President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs and sought his intervention in resolving chieftaincy disputes and community tensions affecting VRA’s operations.
He noted that such conflicts disrupt the Authority’s effectiveness and create uncertainty among staff, ultimately impacting the electricity supply.
The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong ties between the VRA and the Essikado Traditional Council, with both parties expressing optimism about future collaborations.
