Nhyiaesohene pledges support to ECG to curb encroachment

Nana Osei Yaw Frimpong II, the Nhyiaesohene of Kumasi, has committed the traditional authority's backing to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in order to prevent intrusions on utility corridors and safeguard the right of way for electricity infrastructure within his area. He expressed the traditional authority's intention to work alongside ECG to ensure that lands designated for the installation and maintenance of electricity infrastructure remain secure for effective service delivery.

The pledge was made during a courtesy visit by Nana Frimpong to the ECG Ashanti West Region management at their regional office in Adum, Kumasi. The visit aimed to enhance collaboration between ECG and traditional authorities and provide an opportunity for the Nhyiaesohene to discuss issues affecting electricity supply and infrastructure development with the regional management.

Nana Frimpong praised ECG for enhancing power supply and service delivery in various parts of his jurisdiction, such as Ahodwo, Adum, Darkodwom, Danyame, Ridge, the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Ridge Condos, and neighboring communities. He emphasized that electricity has become a vital necessity for households, businesses, and the overall economy, making it crucial for traditional authorities to support ECG in fulfilling its responsibilities.

He urged ECG to communicate with his office whenever it encounters any encroachment on utility corridors within his jurisdiction, promising the traditional authority's support to enforce the right of way and maintain public safety. Nana Frimpong also called on residents to refrain from unlawful electricity connections and to pay their bills promptly, enabling ECG to mobilize resources for infrastructure improvement and service enhancement.

George Amoah, General Manager of ECG Ashanti West Region, welcomed the assurance and highlighted the significance of the Nhyiaeso traditional area's location in the heart of Kumasi. He explained that encroachment on ECG's right of way has become a major challenge, with developers constructing buildings within areas reserved for electricity infrastructure and subsequently requesting the company to relocate its facilities at additional expense.

Mr. Amoah stated that the Nhyiaesohene's commitment would assist ECG in addressing this issue and ensuring the protection of utility corridors. He mentioned that ECG has upgraded power transformers at the Ridge Bulk Supply Point and that the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) is also upgrading its power transformer to meet the growing demand.

Additionally, ECG has initiated a project to install two new 500kVA transformers within the Adum Central Business District to improve power supply and cater to the increasing demand. Mr. Amoah assured the Nhyiaesohene of ECG's ongoing dedication to collaborating with traditional authorities and other stakeholders to enhance electricity supply in Greater Kumasi and the Ashanti Region.