Ghana and Japan have officially signed a $13.44 million grant agreement aimed at improving power supply stability in Tamale and its surrounding areas.
The grant will finance the construction of a primary power sub-station, which will play a critical role in stabilizing electricity distribution in the Tamale Metropolis. The two-year project also includes the construction of a control room, the installation of transformers, and the development of interconnected sub-transmission lines.
The agreement was signed in Accra on Friday, with Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson representing the Government of Ghana, while Suzuki Momoko, Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Ghana Office, signed on behalf of the Japanese government.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Forson expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for its continuous support, emphasizing that the project would significantly enhance power distribution in Tamale.
He reiterated Ghana’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with JICA and Japan to accelerate national development.
“Our doors are open, and we are ready to work with you to build on our existing cordial bilateral relationship,” he stated.
Dr. Forson also appealed to the Japanese government to support the construction of the Volivo Bridge in the Volta Region, describing it as a priority project under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.
“All the preparatory documents and work must be completed so that the project can be incorporated into the 2026 budget for commencement next year,” he added.
Suzuki Momoko, JICA’s Chief Representative, highlighted the significance of the project in strengthening diplomatic ties between Ghana and Japan. She revealed that the initiative would be executed by the Northern Electricity Company Limited (NEDCo) and would complement previous Japanese-funded energy projects.
“This project is the second power intervention by the Japanese government, following the Power Distribution Project in Tamale and Sunyani in 2015,” she noted.
She explained that upon completion, the project would enhance power reliability in key areas such as:
✅ Tamale Central Market
✅ Central Business District
✅ Tamale Central Hospital
✅ Educational institutions
✅ Adjoining rural communities
“The project will help reduce the duration and frequency of power outages in Tamale. Additionally, the reduced dependence on generators will lower fuel costs and CO2 emissions, contributing to a more sustainable environment,” she added.
With this strategic investment, Ghana and Japan continue to deepen their cooperation, paving the way for enhanced infrastructure and improved energy security in the Northern Region.
