The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has announced the full restoration of power supply to Tamale and surrounding communities following days of disruptions caused by a staff walkout from the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCO) and the Volta River Authority (VRA).
The swift resolution came on the heels of a high-level intervention led by the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor (MP), who undertook a working visit to the region to defuse tensions and mediate a lasting solution.
“Our approach was to listen first, act decisively, and work collaboratively.
“We commend the staff of NEDCO and VRA for their willingness to return to duty and the residents for their patience during this difficult period.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor (MP), Minister for Energy and Green Transition
Residents in Tamale and several neighbouring districts were left without electricity after employees of both NEDCO and VRA suspended operations, citing unresolved concerns over safety and working conditions.
The situation raised alarm across the region, affecting businesses, hospitals, schools, and daily livelihoods, and prompting the Ministry to act quickly.
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister for Energy and Green Transition
In a demonstration of firm leadership and commitment to national service delivery, Minister Jinapor convened multiple meetings with all relevant stakeholders in the region.
During his visit, he engaged in closed-door discussions with the Northern Regional Minister, the Mayor of Tamale, and top management of NEDCO.
He also held meetings with representatives from the Senior Staff Association and Union of NEDCO and VRA, the Ghana Police Service Regional Commander, and the Northern Regional head of National Security.
Beyond the administrative and operational consultations, the Minister extended his outreach to include the traditional leadership of the region.
He paid courtesy calls to the palaces of the Gukpenaa, Kuga Naa, and the Gbewaa Palace, where he listened to concerns and received counsel from the region’s revered traditional authorities.
His visit was well-received, particularly at the court of the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari Gariba II, whose support and input were acknowledged as pivotal to the success of the resolution efforts.
Minister Jinapor expressed appreciation for the warmth and wisdom extended by the traditional rulers.
“The engagement with the Overlord of Dagbon and other chiefs was critical in restoring calm and confidence.
NEDCO Maintenance
“Their involvement reaffirmed the importance of traditional authority in community-level peacebuilding and cooperation.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor (MP), Minister for Energy and Green Transition
Following the consultations, the staff of NEDCO and VRA rescinded their industrial action and returned to work, leading to the restoration of power to affected communities.
According to the Minister, the return to normalcy was made possible through open dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the people.
The Energy Minister also acknowledged the crucial role played by regional security agencies in safeguarding public assets and maintaining order during the blackout.
He assured residents that security remains a top priority and that the Ministry would continue working closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent future incidents of aggression against utility workers.
Minister Jinapor appealed to the general public to desist from threatening or attacking utility staff, cautioning that such behaviour only undermines efforts to maintain reliable energy supply and discourages workers from performing their duties effectively.
He noted that all grievances—whether from staff or community members—must be addressed through established channels and lawful means.
“The safety of our utility workers is non-negotiable.
“We cannot allow fear and intimidation to destabilise a system that millions depend on.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor (MP), Minister for Energy and Green Transition
The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition reaffirmed its commitment to sustained dialogue with stakeholders to ensure reliable and uninterrupted power supply for Ghanaians.
Energy Sector
It noted that lessons from the Tamale experience would inform future conflict prevention strategies across other regions.
In a statement signed by the Ministry’s Spokesperson and Head of Communication, Richmond Rockson, Esq., the Ministry underscored its readiness to respond promptly to emerging challenges and called on Ghanaians to join hands in building a more resilient energy sector.
“The Ministry remains committed to collaborative governance and proactive engagement.
“We will not relent in our pursuit of energy security, safety, and service excellence for all.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor (MP), Minister for Energy and Green Transition
As Tamale returns to full power and normal activities resume, residents have praised the government’s rapid response and the peaceful resolution of the crisis.
The incident has highlighted the delicate balance between operational efficiency and worker safety in Ghana’s energy sector, as well as the importance of inclusive dialogue in resolving tensions that threaten public services.
With electricity now restored and communication lines reopened among stakeholders, the Ministry is expected to follow up with monitoring mechanisms and further stakeholder consultations to ensure lasting stability in Tamale and beyond.
