The Association of VRA Technician Engineers (AVRATE) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing energy sustainability and capacity building in Ghana, following the successful conclusion of its Biennial National Delegates Congress 2025.

Opening the congress, Mr. Richard Yamoah, National Chairman of AVRATE and Chief Technician Engineer at VRA, highlighted the association’s determination to work hand-in-hand with management in advancing the Authority’s vision.

He underscored that sustainable employment, operational viability, and technical expertise remain crucial in shaping Ghana’s future energy landscape.

“AVRATE’s role in national projects goes beyond routine operations.
“We are partners in progress, and our collective expertise must be harnessed to safeguard VRA’s legacy and ensure long-term energy security for the country.”
Mr. Richard Yamoah, National Chairman of AVRATE and Chief Technician Engineer at VRA

The two-day event, held under the theme “Securing a Sustainable Future: VRA and AVRATE in Partnership,” brought together engineers, technicians, and senior executives from the Volta River Authority (VRA), Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), industry experts, and stakeholders in the country’s power sector.

Delivering the keynote presentation, Engineer Henry Kojo Boateng, National President of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Ghana, urged VRA and its partners to adopt forward-looking strategies, with renewable energy at the core.

He stressed that investing in solar, wind, and other sustainable technologies would not only strengthen Ghana’s energy security but also position the Authority as a regional leader in clean power generation.

“Safeguarding Ghana’s energy assets requires more than maintaining current systems. We must embrace renewable technologies and build resilience into our operations.
“Collaboration between government, management, and engineering professionals will be key to sustaining VRA’s proud legacy.”
Engr. Henry Kojo Boateng, National President of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Ghana

Leadership Commitment from VRA

As the Special Guest of Honour, Mr. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, Acting Chief Executive of VRA, praised AVRATE for its indispensable contributions to the Authority’s operational successes.

He cited the Anwomaso Thermal Plant project as a prime example of the association’s competence and dedication.

“The theme of this congress speaks volumes. Securing a sustainable future through partnership is not just a slogan—it is a mission that requires unity, innovation, and responsibility,”
Mr. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, Acting Chief Executive of VRA

Obeng-Kenzo added, “As VRA embarks on capacity expansion projects, we will continue to count on AVRATE’s technical expertise, teamwork, and knowledge-sharing culture.”

He added that VRA’s future must be anchored on visionary leadership and decisive action, ensuring that Ghanaians enjoy reliable and affordable energy while the Authority cements its role as a leader in sustainable power production.

The congress also received remarks from senior executives, including Mr. Samuel Fletcher, Deputy Chief Executive (Services) of VRA; Ing. John Okine Yamoah, Acting Managing Director of NEDCo; and Mr. Dominic Ofosuhene, Director of Human Resources at VRA.

They pledged continued collaboration with AVRATE in building a resilient energy workforce.

Solidarity messages were delivered by the Society of VRA Engineers (SOVRAE), the Senior Staff Association (SSA), and the Technician Engineers Association of GRIDCo (TEAG), all emphasizing the importance of unity among energy professionals in addressing the evolving challenges of the sector.

Governance, Accountability, and Well-being

Day two of the congress shifted focus to governance and capacity building. Delegates reviewed reports from the 2022 congress, scrutinised financial statements covering 2022–2025, and engaged in an open forum to address accountability and transparency concerns.

A lively panel discussion on Work-Life Balance, moderated by Mr. Evan Eric Amoah with contributions from Mr. Ebenezer Ayanful and Mr. Daniel Doh Datsomor, encouraged participants to share practical strategies for balancing productivity with employee well-being.

The conversation underscored the growing importance of mental health and wellness in sustaining a high-performing workforce.

The congress culminated with the dissolution of the outgoing national executive body, elections of new officers, and the swearing-in of the incoming leadership.

The newly elected executives pledged to build on past achievements while charting innovative paths for AVRATE’s future.

The AVRATE National Delegates Congress 2025 concluded with a strong message of unity and determination.

By deepening partnerships between technicians, engineers, and management, the gathering reaffirmed that the Authority’s sustainability goals depend on innovation, accountability, and responsible leadership.

As AVRATE looks to its next chapter, stakeholders say the congress has set the tone for greater collaboration in ensuring that VRA’s legacy continues to power Ghana’s industrial and economic growth.