The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has commissioned the expansion of rural electrification to 13 new communities in the Central Gonja District of the Savanna Region.

The initiative forms part of government’s broader efforts to extend electricity to every part of Ghana, a vision championed by former President John Dramani Mahama.

Mr Jinapor noted that Ghana currently boasts about 90 per cent electricity access—one of the highest rates in Africa—and reaffirmed government’s determination to achieve universal coverage.

“No community should be left in the dark,” he said, adding that the extension of power to rural areas would improve livelihoods, enhance education, and support small-scale enterprises.

While commending government’s continued investment in electrification, the Minister urged citizens to fulfil their civic duty by paying for the power they consume.

“Government is doing its part by expanding electricity access, but we must all play our roles as citizens by paying for the electricity consumed. If more people pay, that’s how we keep the power on. It’s a shared responsibility,” he stressed.

Addressing concerns raised by residents in Tamale, Mr Jinapor called for fairness and dialogue, noting that those facing genuine financial difficulties could be placed on payment plans.

However, he cautioned against illegal power connections, describing them as destructive to transformers and entire communities.

He also highlighted the implementation of a Loss Reduction Programme, which has already yielded about a 10 per cent improvement in collections and reduced losses.

“As Energy Minister, I will continue to provide every support to ensure this progress continues,” he affirmed.