NEWS

Newsletter Volume 14: April - May - June - 2018 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OUTLINES STRATEGY FOR THE ‘NEW VRA’

he Chief Executive of execution of the six the Volta River (6) strategic themes T Authority, Mr. termed: Emmanuel Antwi-Darkwa has reiterated the ‘BRAISE’ the need for the Authority to undergo acronym for: a rigorous restructuring and •Build, nurture re-orientation exercise. and develop VRA’s This according to him is to ensure Human Capital a rapid turn-around of VRA’s Restore VRA’s fortunes, if it is to remain relevant • and competitive in the emerging Finances energy market. •Advance Internal He made the comment when he and External addressed Staff during the Business Process

Authority’s 57th Anniversary; • Improve celebrated on the theme; the Operational & “NEW VRA, Powering the Project future”. Implementation Efficiencies The Strategy is the Sustain VRA’s • Ing. Emmanuel Antwi-Darkwa ‘BRAISE’ Position as a Market Leader According to the Chief, the key •Ensure Development in a IN THIS ISSUE issues to VRA’s recovery: low Sustainable Manner. asset utilization, decline in the Board Chairman Speaks On ‘New VRA’ p 3 Authority’s market share in the Cont. on pg.2 Power Market, competition from KTPS To Run On Gas p 6 IPPs, short-term leadership gap, EDRMS Takes Off Fully p 13 weak financial performance, has informed the formulation and Fire Experts Inspect Kpong p 16 Generating Station

VRA Takes Over Management Of Five (5) Mini Grids p 17 VRA NEWS ► CHIEF EXECUTIVE OUTLINES STRATEGY FOR THE ‘NEW VRA’ - cont’dContd. from pg.1

expanding our business portfolio with – Build, nurture and develop and operational processes to ensure B the view to growing sales and VRA’s Human Capital: The we reduce our administrative and profitability: “Meeting the Needs and objective is to ensure Staff in the operational cost and still operate in Expectations of the Energy ‘NEW VRA’ would undertake an efficient and effective manner: Consumer” their activities with a private “Meeting the Needs and Expectation sector mindset. That the Staff of the Customer”. equipped with the required skills E - Ensure Development in a and knowledge, would promote a Sustainable Manner: The idea is to – Improve Operational & Project customer satisfaction and I take advantage and invest in the Implementation Efficiencies: The value-driven natural/renewable energy resources in culture. In Ghana to addition, the remain Leaders strategy is to in the climate Restore Build, Nurture inure to a VRA’s & Develop change agenda, succession Finances VRA’s this is referred plan that B Human Capital to as: would cater for Advance Internal R “Leadership in and External the Climate the gaps Business Change created as a Processes A result of a Agenda” rapidly aging Improve Already work force: Operational & “Strengthen Project Management our Human Implementation I has shown Resource to Efficiencies commitment to Realize our implement Ensure Strategic Sustain VRA’s S various Development initiatives Intent” Position in a as Market E including a Sustainable Leader Manner 3-year R – Restore Financial VRA’s Recovery Finances: The purpose is to Programme (FRP) and provide effective financial rational is to optimize operational Organizational Restructuring by the management across all levels of costs through competitive year 2020. The Executive and the the organization to ensure we procurement of all goods, works and Corporate Strategy Department have strengthen our balance sheet, services; optimizing inventory therefore initiated various staff sustain financial liquidity to levels, implementing “best consultations and townhall meetings guarantee our short to long term practices”, developing bankable to sensitize and bring staff up to speed financial sustainability, and in projects etc., to become: A Model of on the programme. The onus now lies the long run wean off from Excellence for Power Utilities in on us to rise above the occasion and Government of Ghana’s Africa. collectively work towards the financial support: ‘VRA Beyond singular purpose of making the VRA Aid’. the Resilient, Sustainable and Growing Multi-Business Holding S- Sustain VRA’s Position as a Company. A – Advance Internal and Market Leader: The aim is to ensure External Business Process: the ‘NEW VRA’ is able to compete Mainstreaming technology favourably in the emerging energy including IT in all our business market by diversifying and

2 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ► BOARD CHAIRMAN SPEAKS ON ‘NEW VRA’ As part of the activities marking VRA’s 57th Anniversary, the Board Chairman, Mr. Kweku Awotwi, was done at the time. Unfortunately, bring on board our people, our granted an interview to Israel that was curtailed. expertise and our knowledge. Laryea on a range of issues. According to him, the new Hopefully, they will bring their Below are excerpts from the approach is to build VRA into a capital and best practice, which interview: Resilient, Sustainable and Growing would give us the platform to oard Chairman of the Volta Multi-Business Holding Company, leverage outside the country. River Authority (VRA), Mr. comprising of hydro, thermal and Doing this he said, will offer VRA B Kweku Andoh Awotwi, has non-power subsidiaries. He said, the the capacity to aggressively go out expressed optimism that plans idea is to make VRA a much more beyond our frontiers to secure new to restructure VRA into a profitable company with better businesses, on the back of the West Multi-Business Holding Company running efficiencies across board. African Power Pool, which is slowly has great potential to succeed. He explained that the old ways of connecting all the countries with According to him, though there are doing things will not work and so high voltage transmission lines. no guarantees in life, his certainty is there was the need to make VRA This, ultimately, he said, should confirmed by more efficient, more competitive among others, help address some of the caliber of our real liquidity Board Members challenges. appointed to On the lead the Non-Power organization. He subsidiary, he said, these are stated that, they men and women were in the with in depth process of understanding re-registering of the issues, them, putting in and a good sense new of the Management commercial Boards and environment. He eventually added, the starting the keenness on the process of part of finding partners for them. Government to Mr. Awotwi with Israel Laryea push the agenda as well as the desire Responding to the question on of the Management team who whether Staff of VRA had been actually understand the need for the and more customer phasing”. involved in the drive towards the restructuring gives me a lot of hope. Mr. Awotwi stated that ‘the ‘NEW VRA’, the Board Chairman The Board Chairman made the introduction of Independent Power stated that, the involvement of the remark on “Joy News Prime”, when Producers into the system has Staff is critical at least to the extent he granted an interview to Israel knocked the Authority of its of knowing what was going on. He Laryea,” as part of activities monopoly status although it still explained that the Staff will be fully marking the Authority’s 57th produces about half of the country’s apprised once plans are concretized Anniversary celebration. power.’ In that case, the idea of the enough to be communicated to Speaking on the restructuring of ‘NEW VRA’ is to partner with the them. the organisation into the ‘NEW private sector in a joint venture. “We All things being equal, if we do VRA’, he noted that restructuring will contemplate the idea that they things right; we shall succeed in VRA had actually been long in are the majority partners with about creating a VRA that is financially gestation, adding that several efforts 51% shares; but we would be sustainable, has the capacity to to restructure had been made in the substantial minority partners in compete favourably in the energy past. He stated that during his time running them”, he added.” He was market and has the ability to sustain as Chief Executive, similar efforts emphatic VRA would not be just a its position as the market leader, he were made. A lot of ground work 10/15% passive investor as we will said. [email protected] / www.vra.com | 3 VRA NEWS ► SENIOR KENYA MILITARY OFFICERS VISIT AGS Nathaniel Ekue Mensah, General Services Department/Akosombo

military delegations over the years. “It is amazing to paying working visits learn that this Plant was to the AGS. constructed in the 1960s and is He told the delegation still working in a manner that that “As part of VRA’s meets modern trends within the audacious vision to energy sectors across the become a Model of world”. He disclosed that the Excellence for Power team’s visit to Ghana was to Utilities in Africa, it afford them the opportunity to was embarking on an enhance their knowledge of the initiative that would social, political and economic Ing. Kenneth Arthur making a presentation to one of enable VRA show sectors of the country. the military officers. leadership in the climate change Chief Technician Engineer wenty-Nine Senior Military agenda by investing in Renewable (Operating), Mr. Foster Officers from the National Energy. Temeng, conducted the guests T Defense College of Kenya The leader of the Kenyan Military around the generating facility. have paid a familiarization delegation and visit to the Akosombo Generating Deputy Station (AGS). Commandant of Receiving the Kenyan delegation the Kenyan who were accompanied by 9 Defence Staff Ghanaian Military Officers, Plant College, Manager of the AGS, Ing. Kenneth Brigadier Simon Arthur, acknowledged that the M. Wachira, Authority over the years has built a commended very strong mutual relationship VRA for the way with the Ghana Armed Forces the station has resulting in a number of foreign been operated The delegation in a group picture with VRA Officials.

AKOSOMBO, AKUSE LABOUR EXECUTIVES PLEDGE SUPPORT FOR ‘NEW VRA’ AGENDA Michael Danso, GS/CCU, Akuse

he Leadership of the Speaking to the VRA News Volta River in separate interviews on the T Authority (VRA)’s sidelines of the 2018 Local Division of Workers Day (May Day) the Public Services celebration in Koforidua, Mr. Workers Union (PSWU) David Afful and Mr. Prosper of the Trades Union Zentey, PSWU Chairmen for Congress, have pledged the Akosombo and Akuse their support for local branches respectively, Management’s new policy said, “they throw their direction for the Authority. Staff of VRA with their May Day banner weight behind Management’s

Contd. on pg.5

4 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ► Contd. from pg.4

Management’s new implementation. policy direction of As has been the restructuring, refocusing practice, VRA joined and building the VRA other organizations at into a Resilient, the Koforidua Sustainable & Growing Jackson’s Park to Multi-Bushiness Holding mark this year’s Company.” event. The theme for They expressed the hope the event was: that the strategic plans “Sustainable outlined by Management Development Goals to transform and and Decent Work, reorganize the VRA will the Role of Social Staff of VRA participating in the May Day Celebrations. be cascaded down to the Partners”. Staff to secure their The Eastern Regional Phyllis Agyemang, in buy-in in order to Chairman of the Trade her speech said Leadership Quote facilitate its Union Congress, ‘workers of Ghana will continue to “Progress is impossible support the good policies of without change, and government but will those who cannot change not hesitate to their minds cannot criticize decisions that will not benefit its change anything” Workers. GOERGE BERNARD SHAW

VRA Staff in a group picture.

UPDATE ON KPONG GS RETROFIT Michael Danso, GSD /CCU, Akuse

ng. Nana Kum He disclosed that, Sam-Awortwi an Officer preliminary works such as I on the Kpong Generating the dismantling of turbine, Station Retrofit Project generator, intake gate, has stated that retrofit works electrical and automation on Unit 3 of the Kpong systems have been Generating Station (KGS) is completed. He projected about 25% complete with that barring any unforeseen refurbishment and circumstances, work on installation works on Unit 3 is expected to be various equipment and completed by March 2019”. Unit 3 rotor being removed from the pit. components ongoing. Contd. on pg.6

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 5 VRA NEWS ►

Contd. from pg.5

It would be recalled that already, Units 1 & 2 of the KGS have been successfully completed and handed over to the Volta River Authority (VRA) by the project contractor, Andritz Hydro of Canada for commercial operation.

Intake gate being removed from the water. Stator for Unit 3 ready to be lifted.

KPONE THERMAL POWER STATION TO RUN ON GAS By: John Chobbah, CCU

he Volta River Authority’s choice than to rely on T Kpone Thermal Power Distillate Fuel Oil Station (KTPS) is (DFO), following the undergoing commissioning to unavailability of natural enable it run on Natural Gas gas. This, he said has (N-Gas). accounted for the high According to Managers of the unit cost of electricity Station, the rational is to generated from the improve operational efficiency Station. “With the current and most importantly, reduce increase in supply of gas the current unit cost of from Nigeria, the most electricity generated from the prudent thing to do, is to KTPS. complete the

Speaking to the VRA NEWS, commissioning of the An aerial shot of the gas turbine island. Plant Manager for KTPS, Ing. Station in order to begin Darlington Ahuble, reiterated utilising the gas, he stated.” that when the Station On his part, the Operations Performance Testing and Load commenced commercial Manager, Ing. Samuel K. A. Rejection Testing.” He said, operations in 2016, it had no Yeboah, added that “currently currently the task was largely two gas turbines are completed except for a few being commissioned which could not be undertaken in addition to due to low gas pressures. carrying out some It is the expectation of the performance tests”. VRA NEWS that the successful He disclosed that commissioning of the Station activities undertaken would facilitate the possible so far include; Min conversion of the Station from a load Testing, Simple Cycle into a Combined Emission and Cycle mode in the future. Pulsation Testing, GT Part Load testing, GT Full Load Testing, Staff working on the natural gas conditioning facility.

6 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ►

MANAGING VRA’S STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES AT RISK (PART 2) Researched by Mr. Christian Cobbinah

share (e.g. available data from 2. Improve on Customer Introduction GRIDCo shows that VRA’s market Engagement share declined from 92% in 2012 to 65% in 2016 and currently The Authority should reshape its In the First Part of this article, we stands at 55%), is for VRA to aim relationships with its customers, by discussed the main risks that could to be better than the other players tapping into their motivations and impede the achievement of VRA’s within the sector, by focusing on sentiments, and provide them with Strategic Objectives and asked what matters to its customers. the complete tools that meet their ourselves the relevance of VRA’s For the power business; since desires for electricity consumption Operating Business Model, in the electricity is a homogenous and management. This is key to light of the fast-changing business product, it is important that the some of them, considering the environment. power that we sell is competitive, proportion of energy costs to their reliable and sustainable. total operating costs. For example, We identified the following, as Accomplishing this feat requires Gold Fields Limited stated in their some of the emerging issues that VRA to harness its core Integrated 2016 Annual Report that put the achievement of VRA’s capabilities, such as its brand, energy costs accounted for 19% of strategic objectives at risk: historical sector leadership, the Groups operating costs for relationships with key 2016, up from 18% in 2013. • Changes in technology resulting stakeholders, experienced staff, We should strive to maintain in breakdown of entry barriers for and at the same time invest in its some fundamental relationships new entrants to the power sector. strengths, whilst addressing its with our customers, compared to • The adoption of distributed weaknesses. others, because without this, we are energy technologies giving power Specifically, VRA should at the will of others to redefine our consumers an easier and consider the following to respond space, whilst with strong customer “short-circuit” access to electricity. to the emerging threats and exploit relationships, we have tremendous • Falling costs of alternative power the associated opportunities: abilities to shape our own future. sources, which is making new business models to become the 1. Human Resources and Skills 3. Consider Innovative Ways of norm. Development Financing and Accessing •Exposure to the inherent Capital operational risks of the partners Further investing in staff, by within the grid value chain. upskilling to ensure that VRA has The Authority should sustain the highly trained and ethical change in mindset from the Increasing regulations, policy • employees that will enable it to traditional focus on financing shifts and key stakeholders’ stem the tide and eventually stay projects and new business ventures interference. ahead of the competition. This is on 100% ownership towards a because the right people will drive variety of non-traditional financing This episode will focus on the the right outcomes. Leveraging on instruments, by taking advantage management of these and other the on-going staff rotation, and the of the wide range of potential local related risks. deployment of an effective scheme and global investors/partners, by Managing the Risks Associated of service should enable the implementing selected with Achievement of VRA’s Authority to move from the highly partnerships with risk-sharing Strategic Objectives. inflexible and specialized roles into models. The general point to note in highly flexible and standardized managing the on-going roles, that allows for flexible staff 4.Leverage on Technology developments in the power sector deployment, multi-skilling and The Authority should, as a matter that have resulted in VRA losing a quick role shifting, allowing for of urgency leverage on emerging significant portion of its market adaptive tasks accomplishment. Contd. on pg.8 [email protected] / www.vra.com | 7 VRA NEWS ► Contd. from pg.7 7. Proactively Influence technologies to improve on its businesses that could improve on Regulatory and Policy Shifts business processes and cut costs by our gross profit margins and assure reducing end to end processes and of ultimate net profitability. The Authority should influence roles. We should sustain our emerging regulations and energy intention to move away from the 6. Harness the Synergies of our sector policy shifts by enacting a manual processes (based on paper Investments/Non-power policy to guide its engagement and print) into a full virtual Business Assets with Regulators and Policy Makers enterprise with customer-focused, (e.g. the Sector Ministry, Energy end-to-end digitization, where each The Authority should extract the Commission, Parliament, the piece of data/information is inherent synergies from its Cabinet, PURC, etc.). A Team must available and accessible in real non-power assets, by ensuring that be made responsible for time they complement each other in understanding emerging policies their operations, rather than and regulations, then table and competing against each other. The engage Key Stakeholders to 5. Sustain the diversification of whole must be greater than the sum consider VRA’s input, before such VRA’s Energy Portfolio of its parts. The Volta Hotel, the policies are passed or the Real Estates and Security regulations promulgated. The Authority should sustain the Department, the VRA Hospital and Conclusion intended diversification of its the Volta Lake Transport Company In the face of business disruptions, energy portfolio and venture into can all be repositioned to make such as the transformation in other areas of energy generation to Akosombo a Hub of Business, Ghana’s Power Sector, it is improve on availability and Leisure/Tourism, Health Care and important to focus on the strategic reliability. It should use the Transportation. fundamentals necessary to harness appropriate technology to ensure For example, the Real Estates and core capabilities, invest in achievement of the lowest Security Department could strengths and address existing life-cycle cost/kWh within the remodel some of the vacant staff vulnerabilities to stay ahead of the sector. This can further be used to bungalows into Executive Guest competition and maintain sector reduce the over-exposure to risks Houses for Corporate West Africa, leadership. Let’s remember that it in the Grid Value Chain. Research who could make use of the Hotel’s is easier to use what we have, to get can be undertaken into the Bar, Restaurant, the Maritime Club what we want. profitability of distributed and other facilities, with the generation; mini-grid to Hospital ensuring implementation References: off-grid/standalone installations of the Care and Nursing School, 1. Strategy+Business: The fear of (e.g. solar or gas) for some of our with complimentary First-Class disruption can be more damaging customer segments, as well as the Group Homes (i.e. residences for than the actual disruption. By Paul deployment of large scale solar people requiring care or Leinwand and Cesare R. Mainardi. facility (e.g. 100MW or more) for supervision) and VLTC, using September 27, 2017 Edition distribution by NEDCo. This could PPPs to overhaul its operations and 2. Gold Fields Limited Integrated create an expanded generation acquire modern cargo and 2016 Annual Report. capacity and portfolio of passenger vessels. DANGME KAKE-PEM KPE REWARDS RETIRED MEMBERS Michael Danso, Corporate Communications Unit, Akuse

he Dangme Kake-Pem Kpe Akuse and Akosombo. (Dangme United Mr. Nathan Boye Kudjordjie of the T Association) has eulogized Human Resource Department, four of its retired members Akosombo received a double-door with sendoff packages at the refrigerator, 12 yards of wax prints association’s annual retirees’ and a cash amount of GH¢500 as his send-off and party held in Tema. reward for being the longest serving The group is a merger of Dangme member for 26 years. and Krobo staff employed by the Another member, Mr. Samuel Volta River Authority (VRA) and Nartey Mensah of Real Estate and the Ghana Grid Company Security Department (RE&SD), Chairperson, Albert Larnyo (GRIDCo) resident in Accra, Tema, Contd. on pg.9 8 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ► Contd. from pg.8 Addoquaye, and Stephen Nartey of RE&SD and Procurement Department, took home 12 yards of wax prints and GH¢500 each, for serving seven and six years respectively. The event interspersed with danceable Ga, Krobo and Dangme music renditions, served as an avenue to socialize, A receipient receiving his award. share unity, love and camaraderie Group members in a photpraph. was also honoured with a table-top among members and their relations. success of the association. He used the refrigerator, 12 yards of wax prints Chairman of the Association, Mr. opportunity to admonish staff in active and a cash prize of GH¢500 for his Albert Larnyoh commended the service to work with integrity “so that 17 years of loyalty to the group. retirees for demonstrating loyalty when it is time to retire we will go Messers Benjamin Meenoi and commitment to the overall home with pride and joy.” PARENTS ADVISED TO BE CRITICAL ELEMENTS FOR HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS- PROF DUKU OSEI Nathaniel Ekue Mensah, General Services Department/Akosombo

he Deputy Rector of the and leaders in an T Ghana Institute of environment of warmth and Management and Public affection. He reiterated that Administration (GIMPA), Prof. “Holistic Human Philip Duku Osei has called for Development is therefore a strong collaboration between reference to a development parents and the educational policy and management sector to ensure holistic human approach which ensures the development. contribution of all agencies Addressing the 7th graduation including the state, the ceremony of the Akosombo school, civic association and the Prof. Duku Osei addressing the gathering International School (AIS) at family”, he stated Akosombo, on the theme: The Guest of Honour and a that is it. I know people who got “Effective Parenting Today for Member of the VRA Board, Rev. first class but made horrible Holistic Development: The Dr. Joyce Rosalind Aryee, said, citizens because they made no Home and School in ‘the narrative of education is no attempt to get the other skills,” Perspective”, Prof. Duku Osei longer how many A’s or she said. stated that the school is at the distinction a person gets, but She advised the graduands to be centre of knowledge rather the narrative of education engaged in their communities reproduction and technology is that one becomes a beyond their universities, saying while the household or home is well-rounded person with social what they do for others would the place for nurturing children skills such as communication eventually come back to them. and interpersonal skills.’ In her address, Director, General She stated that even though Services, Ms. Shirley Seidu, integrity is not part of the disclosed that research studies social skills one needs, any have shown that a significant education that is devoid of feature of maximizing student integrity of the one success is the participation and educated, is no education at supportive engagement of all. parents as partners in their “We used to think that children’s education. because you got good grades A cross-section of the graduands Contd. on pg.10

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 9 VRA NEWS ►

Contd. from pg.9 The Headmaster, past year were awarded with Secondary Division, prizes from Lancaster Mr. Julius Kog-Der University College, Ghana, said one of the Webster University College, biggest challenges the Ghana and Star Life Assurance. school is faced with is Present at the event were; Ag. the lack of adequate DCE (E&O), Ing. Emmanuel infrastructure to Osafo, Director, Technical accommodate the Services, Mr. Ebenezer growing number of Koramoa and staff of the applicants seeking Akosombo International The Headmaster in a group picture with some of admission into the school. School. the dignitaries. Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, the School Prefect She commended Staff of the and the overall best student, AIS for their dedication and Master Vincent Ayensu Jnr. devotion to duty as well as the was grateful to staff of the AIS Parent Teacher Association for as well as their parents for the their consistent and love and care shown constructive support for the them over the years school over the years. She and promised to congratulated the class of 2018 continue upholding for choosing to be part of an the vital lessons institution which has made it a taught them. duty to instill in them A group of students extraordinary abilities, who excelled in accomplishments and their academic work admirable qualities which have as well as in prepared them to embrace the leadership over the future. A cross-section of parents and guests at the graduation.

IT PAYS TO LISTEN

Hillary Andoh, NSP,GSD, Accra

t the end of the day, each with my dad being a renowned siblings were a complete one of us will conclude dermatologist and my mum, the nuisance. Besides, I had my A our own stories. Attorney General. I was one of own issues to address. I was not Whether or not it will the luckiest children on the face about to add mischief to my have a happy ending, depends of earth. Being the oldest of four plate and therefore left the on the content of each chapter. children, I was charged with the burden of caring for them to our Growing up, there was nothing I herculean task of being a role nanny who received a fat check lacked. I had everything at my model, but I felt slightly each month for being a disposal. My parents were one incapacitated to take up that guardian. of the wealthiest in the country, responsibility as my younger Contd. on pg.15

10 | co [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ► HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT INTERACTS WITH STAFF AT HR FAIR Hillary Andoh & Abena Serwaa Oppong, NSP-Attachee, GSD, Accra

he Organisational also vacant, thereby Development & Change causing a rippling effect. T Management (OD&CM) Section of the Human 2018 Corporate Budget Resource Department and Performance (HRD) of the Volta River Authority, Addressing the issue on the has engaged Staff at the 2018 HR ‘2018 Corporate Budget Fair in Accra. and Performance’, the Organised on the theme: ‘People, Manager, Budget, Mrs. Purpose and Performance: Lighting Ama Ocansey Arthur the NEW VRA’, the Fair, offered an explained, “budget is the interactive platform for the HRD to monetary aspect of the provide insights on HRD’s policies Corporate Strategy which An HR official addressing the audience. and Corporate Objectives as well as should be aligned to the Financial afford Staff an opportunity to seek Recovery Plan.” She said, the 2018 training and employee benefits. The clarity on issues of personal concern. Budget was prepared under the HR Team provided responses to the Led by the Areas HR Manager, guidance of a strategy that will allow queries presented by the staff. Mrs. Gwendoline Sam-Appiah, the the Authority to improve its Mrs. Sam-Appiah on her part Team discussed several topics performance and retain its position entreated staff to push to be trained including; Promotions and the 2018 as a strong player in the Power to gain additional skills and Market. knowledge to undertake She indicated that over the last responsibilities. five years, the Authority’s Concluding, the Team explained that market share had reduced from the agenda for the ‘NEW VRA’ is to 98% to 49% in 2018. This, build, nurture and develop a VRA according to her, was staff who would operate with a attributable to the emergence commercial and private sector of Independent Power mindset. She said this was critical if Producers into the Power VRA wants to become relevant in Market. She said if the the competitive market and regain its Authority could maintain its position as the market leader. current market position for the Mr. Steven Ofori making his presentation. In attendance were Manager, next three years, it could regain its Organizational Development and Corporate Budget and Performance. position as the market leader. Change Management (OD&CM), She added that if the Authority Miss Joyce Asiedu, Manager, Issues on promotion carried out its business effectively Protection and Control, Kpong Speaking on the issue on and efficiently as planned in 2019 Generating Station, Mr. Kwaku promotions, Manager, Corporate and 2020, it would make profit and Sarpong among others. Industrial Relations and Staff end the streak of financial losses the Compensation (CIR&SC), Mr. Authority has experienced over the Torgbor Anang, stated, ‘with the years. current reward system, the term ‘Promotion’ was no longer in use, Staff Concerns and that the method of progression After the presentations, the had changed.’ He said, promotions Team paved way for the are now considered ‘New employees to express their Appointments’. He explained that views on business matters. with this system, if there was a The views expressed by vacancy in the establishment, it was staff focused mainly on the resourced internally. He cited for need for HRD to be instance that, if a Principal’s position proactive in providing became vacant, an Officer could adequate information on apply; making the Officer’s position all issues relating to A section of the Staff at the Fair.

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 11 VRA NEWS ► RE-ORGANISATION OF THE AUTHORITY

Ing. Alfred Sackeyfio Dr. Isaac Doku (Director, Corporate Strategy) (Director, Commercial Service)

James Jabari Napour Ing. Oppong-Mensah (Ag. Director Real Estate & Security (Director, Thermal Generation) and Director, Audit) KPONE COMMUNITY SHS RECEIVES LABORATORY EQUIPMENT FROM VRA John Chobbah & Isaac Ofori, GSD, Tema

he Volta River Authority school. She urged the students to the naming of the Schools has donated science study hard to become responsible Physics Science laboratory after T laboratory equipment citizens. VRA, considering the valued at Twenty-five Receiving the items, Headmaster Authority’s tremendous support Thousand, One Hundred and of the school, Mr. Wiafe Akenten, to the school. He recounted how, Five Ghana Cedis (GH₵ thanked VRA for their VRA has invested immensely in 25,105.00) to the Kpone commendable support and community development projects Community Senior High School. assured that proper care of the in the areas of education, social The donation, though a items will be taken. He proposed and economic empowerment. Corporate Social Items donated included Responsibility, also forms chest freezer, round bottom part of Management’s flask, retort stand and clamp, strategy of extending its acids, liquid detergent, environmental footprint and disposable gloves, periodic adding value to the lives of table, pipette, burette, etc. the residents in the impacted Present at the event was communities. Manager CSR, Mr. Sam Presenting the items, Fletcher, Plant Manager Director, General Services, TTPC, Ing. Edward Obeng Ms. Shirley Seidu, expressed Kenzo and Information the hope that the equipment Publicity Officers, Mr. would facilitate the teaching Lawrence Quartey and John and learning of science in the Chobbah. Ms. Shirley Seidu making the presentation.

12 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ► WILLIAM BOBIE APPOINTED MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR PROPCo

r. William Bobie, Real Estate & Security Department M immediate past Director, on June 1, 2018 and has Real Estate & Security commenced Department of the VRA has been formal operations from its appointed the Managing Director temporary offices at 135 Mankralo for PROPCo. Close, East Cantonments. PROPCo, is a fully owned subsidiary of VRA, mandated to hold, manage and develop VRA’s Read more on the separation in the non-core real estate assets into Q3 Edition of the Newsletter. profitable ventures. PROPCo was separated from the Mr. William Bobie (Managing Director, PROPCO)

EDRMS TAKES OFF FULLY

anagement’s quest to ensure a paperless environment and improve the processes M for managing documents and records has received a further shot in the arm. This follows a directive requesting departments to begin full implementation of the Electronic Docu- ment Management System (EDRMS) - Laser- fiche, effective July 3, 2018. The implementation of the EDRMS forms part of Management’s strategy to optimize and leverage the Authority’s IT infrastructure in a bid to reduce the Authority’s operational cost and improve busi- ness efficiency. The VRA NEWS is aware Management has ensured staff involved in the modules of the docu- ment management process chain have received adequate training to facilitate implementation of the programme. On this note, we want to reiterate Management’s call that all staff should be encouraged to use the system to ensure we derive the required benefits; particularly as Management makes effort to restructure, and refocus the VRA into a Resilient, Sustainable & Growing Multi-Business Holding Company.

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 13 VRA NEWS ► HOME OWNERSHIP IS A STRONG ANCHOR FOR YOUR LIFE …SPEAK TO SHLS NOW!

Key Facts STAFF HOUSING LOAN SCHEME 2 Bedroom Properties - Average Rents SERIES

Tema (Estate) GHS 700 -1000/Mth WATCH OUT FOR THE LOAN MANAGEMENT Tema GHS 450-650/Mth SYSTEM!!!! Dansoman GHS 800-1200/Mth

Kasoa GHS 500-600/Mth SENSITIZATION PROGRAMME ON THE AUTOMATED SYSTEM Nsawam GHS 400-600/Mth The Staff Housing Loan Secretariat in collaboration with M.I.S made presentations to all key stakeholders to sensitize and educate them on the Dome GHS 650-1000/Mth adoption and usage of the automated system. Adenta GHS 800 - 1000/Mth The programme covered all staff in VRA locations. Akosombo, Akuse, Aboadze, Tema ,Accra and NEDco. 3 Bedroom Properties – Average Rents USER ACCEPTANCE TESTING Tema(Estate) GHS 1500-2000/Mth The system was tested against the requirements agreed upon. Users of the West Legon GHS 800-1600/Mth system performed these tests in Accra M.I.S Conference Room. Kasoa GHS 800-1000/Mth Representatives from various locations run the test. During this phase procedures and outcomes were tested. Defects were uncovered, some were Nsawam GHS 700-900/Mth rectified and closed while others were not resolved and are still open. During Dome GHS 1200-1500/Mth the UAT, the real users tested the system against the real work scenarios. The

Adenta / Oyarifa GHS 700-1500/Mth issues that came up were documented to help get a better understanding of what was needed to be done before we go live. These tests evaluated the Baastona (Spintex) GHS900-1800/Mth automated system compliance with the requirements of the Housing Loan Scheme. Mortgage Interest Rates (Gh¢)

HFC Bank 26.2 % Eventually, the application will be put on the V.R.A Portal after we go Live. Stanbic Bank 26 % In the meantime, the following URL can be used to access the application. Ghana Home Loans 29 % Fidelity Bank 32..9 % housingloan.vra.com. Stand Chart 28 %

Inflation Rate – 10.6 % as at February, 2018 (source: Bank of Ghana)

Contact: Surv. Hilda Sekyi-Appiah(Mrs) PLC: 728-122, Email: [email protected] LAND AND HOUSES FOR SALE IN ACCRA AND TEMA AT A GLANCE

PRICE LAND FOR HOUSES / APARTMENTS FOR SALE TYPE PRICE LAND SIZE SALE / LOCATION

TEMA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY 2BR $90,000.00 OYARIFA GHC80,000.00 70 X 100 3BR $180,000.00

CLIFTON HOMES APT (EAST LEGON) 3BR $300,000.00 ADENTA GHC38,000.00 70 X 100

DEVTRACO 3BR $160,000.00 APOLONIA GHC35,000.00 70 X 100

2BR GHC450,000.00 LAKESIDE ESTATES (NEW LEGON) NORTH LEGON GHC700,000.00 70 X 100 3BR GHC500,000.00 EAST LEGON $86,599.00 $120,000.00 100 X 80 APOLONIA ESTATES 2BR (Serviced Plot)

14 | [email protected] / www.vra.com Contd. on pg.15 Contd. from pg.14 VRA NEWS ► LAND FOR HOUSES / APARTMENTS FOR SALE TYPE PRICE PRICE LAND SIZE SALE / LOCATION

DANPIAH ENTERPRISE 3BR $70,000.00 ABOKOBI GHC30,000.00 70 X 100

GHS HOUSING 2BR $50,000.00 3BR $70,000.00

SSNIT HOUSING 2BR $150,000.00 3BR GHC350,000.00 DANCITY PROPERTIES ADENTA OYARIFA 2BR GHC250,000.00

APOLONIA ESTATES 3BR GHC250,000.00 IT PAYS TO LISTEN - contʼd

I went about my life as I with, were the worst kind of that promise. deemed fit and the nanny people. They were involved in I spent two months in the obviously could not scold me or all kids of substance abuse and facility facing withdrawal and report me to my parents because my mother had advised me time depression. I was put on I had once mentioned that it was without number to desist from medication and gradually I not in her place to poke her nose ungodly company. All advice responded to treatment. After where it did not belong. I had she gave fell on deaf ears. My the first month, I noticed a great serious problems to deal with, mind was made up. Each person improvement. I could study one of which was studying and had their own flaws and I was hours on end without the help of understanding what I read. I not about to let some minor any kind of drugs and I had could not spend close to an hour flaws mess up my grades. become a staunch member of behind my books. I would lose Soon, situations worsened. I the Christian Association, attention and my mind would could not go a day without sharing my story and begin to wander. It was so taking the drugs. I would encouraging others to turn to stressful, especially because I become extremely aggressive God in times when they felt constantly failed all my exams and easily agitated. On one such lonely, resentful or that all hope and bore the disgrace of my particular day, I badly beat up was lost. lecturers publicly lambasting my younger brother Jonas After two unending months of me. leaving him severely bruised. being away from home, I came I had to find a solution and fast. My dad almost strangled me to out clean. I was no longer My roommate, Alvin, who on death upon seeing Jonas in that friends with those who led me several occasions was topping condition. Without hesitation, astray. I studied alone and the class introduced me to some he asked that I be sent to a meditated on the good Book medication that was supposed rehabilitation center. I obliged whenever I was not studying. to keep me studying for hours ungrudgingly because Steadily, I faced all exams that while completely focused. The apparently I was losing my came my way including the drug worked like magic. Before mind. My mum would not stop finals which I passed and I could say jack, my grades shedding tears; her oldest son graduated with honours. I had were rising and lecturers were had brought her so much made my parents proud. patting me at the back. My heartache. My heart melted Standing here today, pursuing a parents would not stop singing when I saw tears roll down my Master’s degree at the Harvard my praises. But, my mum was mother’s face. I was ashamed. I University, I cannot help but tell worried as she did not had always promised myself others that it most definitely understand the sudden change. never to be the reason my pays to listen. The group I had associated mother would cry. I had broken

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 15 VRA NEWS ► VRA PARTICIPATES IN 2018 WEST AFRICA MINING AND POWER CONFERENCE Isaac Ofori, NSP, GSD / Tema

The conference and the various generation exhibition was held in portfolios, significant collaboration with the information about the power Ghana Chamber of chain and some potential Mines, on the theme, “A renewable sites in the country. responsible and In addition, the Chief sustainable mining Executive’s interview with industry; A partner for Israel Laryea on the ‘New national development”. VRA’ was shown as part of The event created a the scheduled activities to platform for over 150 mark the “Energy Day”.

Mr. Chobbah attending to visitors at the stand delegates whose primary focus centered on the he Volta River Authority latest regulations, participated in the 13th policies, challenges T edition of the West African and opportunities Mining and Power Conference in the two sectors. and Exhibition The VRA (WAMPOC/WAMPEX) held at mounted an the Accra International exhibition booth Conference Center. which showcased A cross-section of delegates listening to the Chief’s Message

FIRE EXPERTS INSPECT KPONG GENERATING STATION Michael Danso, General Services Department, Akuse

team of experts specialized Headquarters, Accra, have Affram, stated that “per the in Fire and Safety undertaken a Fire Safety Risk law, property developers must A Management from the Assessment of the Kpong ensure fire safety measures are Ghana National Fire Service Generating Station (KGS). included in their architectural The inspection drawings and acquire fire according to the safety certificates after inspectors is to facilitate construction.” According to the Authority’s him, that means the Ghana Fire acquisition of a Fire Service needs to acquaint Safety Certificate for themselves with the services, the KGS. size of premises, number of Speaking during the employees and the availability inspection, the Principal of fire protection provisions at Fire Officer, VRA the facility. Akuse Fire Protection

The fire delegation at KGS premises. Unit, Mr. Maxwell Contd. on pg.17

16 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ►

Contd. from pg.16 firefighting equipment Plant to maintain high safety at the Plant, but was standards.” concerned about the housekeeping activities; taking into consideration the ongoing retrofit project. On his part,

The fire team taking a tour of KGS Head of Safety, at Divisional Officer Grade II the KGS, Mr. Oscar of the GNFS, Evans Osei Agyemang, stated Owusu, who led the that “internal fire inspection, expressed inspections are done satisfaction with the periodically at the The team inspecting the KGS facilities.

VRA TAKES OVER MANAGEMENT OF FIVE (5) MINI GRIDS Michael Danso / Nathaniel Mensah, GSD, Akuse/Akosombo

he Volta River Authority has handed over to the officially taken over the VRA to ensure their T management of 5 mini grid long term systems constructed by the sustainability; in terms Ministry of Energy. of its operations and The mini-grids were constructed to maintenance.’ provide electricity for island Chief Director of the communities on the Volta Lake. Ministry of Energy, Mr. Speaking at the handing over Lawrence Apaalse, in ceremony, Ing. Andrew Tonto an address stated that Barfour, Director and Project “government has Coordinator of Ghana Energy adopted renewable A section of the community at the event. Development and Access Project, energy-based mini grid systems for the electrification of island and stated that ‘the systems are being management of the project. He landscape communities to said, ‘the decision is a vote of facilitate government’s confidence in VRA’s capabilities agenda of universal energy in running the mini grids access by 2030.” considering the experience it has In his acceptance speech, gained through the management Director, Hydro Generation, of the Authority’s 2.5MW solar Ing. Charles des Bordes, plant in Navrongo.’ expressed VRA’s gratitude to He assured of the Authority’s the Ministry for mandating them to take over the Contd. on pg.18 Ing. Charles des Bordes addressing the audience.

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 17 VRA NEWS ►

Contd. from pg.17 preparedness to ensure Government of Ghana, that the facilities perform the World Bank and at their optimum levels other relevant in order to derive the stakeholders for required benefits. providing the facility. Chief of Old Nkomi, Nana Wayo Dagodzo, on behalf of the communities expressed gratitude to the An official of the Ministry handing over the Solar PV and Wind Mini Grid certificate to Ing. des Bordes.

ENERGY COMMISSION COMMENDS KPONE THERMAL POWER STATION John Chobbah, GSD / Tema.

r. Eric Ofori-Nyarko, team the opportunity Director, Social, to acquaint themselves M Environmental Impact and with the Authority’s Technical Assessment of the safety activities. Energy Commission has According to the commended Managers of Volta members of the River Authority’s Kpone Thermal Commission, their Power Station (KTPS) for their safe field monitoring of the practices. Authority’s activities Mr. Ofori-Nyarko gave the showed it carries out commendation at a its operations mini-stakeholders meeting according to best organized to monitor and discuss the practices, a situation Team from Energy Commision in a group picture with VRA Staff. Station’s emergency preparedness plan. The meeting also afforded the Mr. Ofori-Nyarko noted had exceeded his expectation. prepared for such impromptu Speaking on behalf of inspections. Management, Plant Present at the meeting were Ag. Manager of KTPS, Ing. Director, Social, Environmental Darlington Ahuble, Impact and Technical thanked the inspection Assessment, Mr. Lester Vanlare; team and assured them of Technical Manager, KTPP, Ing. the Station’s desire to George J. Amegashie, continue working hard to Maintenance Manager, Ing. meet the Commission’s Samuel Yeboah; Principal safety standards. He Environment Officer, Seyram praised his team for their Dzefi and Information/Publicity good work and entreated Officer, John Chobbah. them to always stay KTPS officials in a meeting with representatives from the Energy Commision.

18 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ►

OUR IMPACTED COMMUNITIES - THE UNPLEASANT TRUTH

Lawrence Quartey

he Volta River Authority’s VRA had paid full compensation for problem. If after close to 60 years actions and inactions in the acquired lands, settlers do not of handling resettlement, settlers T past in terms of community hesitate to run to VRA for support are still trooping to the VRA to engagements have created a certain and or to take responsibility for demand broken windows to be mind-set for the impacted community development issues as fixed then it reveals to us the communities, especially persons and when they think or feel so. The seriousness of the situation in terms living in the resettlement areas. rather worrying part of the matter is of ownership of projects delivered The way we to the communities. have engaged A case in question is the West our impacted Kpong Resettlement Community in communities the Lower Manya District. The coupled with community Town Management unguided Committee and Council Elders promises and wrote to VRA asking it to convert fragmented nine toilet facilities (KVIPs) it communication (VRA) provided for the community had, to some 15 years ago, into modern Water extent, Closets facilities. Another encouraged Settlers moving into a resettlement house during the Akosombo Dam Project intriguing request they made was for the Authority to come and settlers to demand more even for the when some individuals or group dislodge the KVIPs septic tanks least trivial things they could do for from the communities, attempt to because they were all full. themselves. threaten the Authority to fulfil Interestingly, to justify their Gradually, the Authority is outrageous demands. demands, the town management realizing that it can no longer The situation has become committee said it was not in a continue to meet some of the unbearable and is posing serious position to pay for the dislodgement demands that keep coming from the threat to VRA’s social licence in because it had no money and do not resettlement and impacted some acquisition areas where have any means of mobilizing communities. The communities’ resettlement issues have become funds for development projects in feeling of uncertainty about their volatile. If issues of sustainability the community. This smacks of lack fate and disempowerment are to were adequately considered in of sense of ownership and some degree a product of how we deficiency in have managed our relationship community with them in the past. responsibility. The communities now feel One of them reminded entitled carrying the notion that the VRA saying: “But VRA is a big organisation with an you (VRA) promised us open purse they can access any that anytime we needed day, any time. This, they had done anything we should through petitioning the Chief channelled it through Executive of the VRA or staging a writing.” To them that protest and using the local media to has been the relationship advance their cause. over the years so they Confirming this culture of did not see anything dependency, a settler at Torgorme wrong asking VRA to during a meeting in Accra retorted: take up the dislodgement of their “VRA is our mother and we know dealing with the resettlement, lavatory septic tanks. whenever we come to you, you will perhaps the story would have been help us…” Even in areas where different. This is the crust of the To be continued in the next edition.

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 19 VRA NEWS ► EFUA GARBRAH-SARFO BIDS FAREWELL TO VRA

Hillary A. Andoh/GSD-CCU/ACCRA

with zeal, she joined the HRD, as a Senior dedication and Manager, responsible for commitment.” Corporate Industrial Relations Mr. Ellis and Staff Compensation. In acknowledged that September 2015, she took up a one remarkable fresh responsibility at the VRA thing about Efua Academy; as Chief Learning was that “she Officer. After a rather short but would go all length memorable stay, she was to deliver on what assigned to the General Services was expected of Department as Director. She her”; a value rejoined the HRD as Director, a which he said was position she held until her critical to the retirement on May 15, 2018. Mrs. Efua Garbrah-Sarfo in a group picture with some Management and Staff. Many who were present at the growth of the Authority. He event shared their fondest entreated staff still in service to memories of Efua Garbrah-Sarfo rs. Efua Garbrah-Sarfo, emulate that value; especially as and how she had impacted on immediate past Director Management takes steps to their lives. M of the Human Resources restructure, refocus and Dignitaries who graced the Department (HRD) of transform the VRA into a occasion were her husband and the Volta River Authority (VRA), Resilient, Sustainable and former Chief Executive of the has bid farewell to the Authority Growing Multi-Business VRA, Mr. Owura Sarfo; newly after thirty-five years of service. Holding Company. appointed Managing Director of In a succinct but poignant Mrs. Garbrah-Sarfo joined PROPCO, Mr. William Bobie; valedictory message, Mrs. VRA in 1982 as a teacher at the Director, Legal Services, Mrs. Garbrah-Sarfo, expressed Akosombo International School. Ellen Bannerman-Quist; Adviser appreciation to all for their She made a mark wherever she on VRA Academy, Mrs. Bevelyn support while she carried out her went with her proficiency and Asamoah; Manager, Internal responsibilities in the various prowess in the French language. Audit, Mr. Kojo capacities she served. After several years at the school, Asamoah-Aning; and Manager, A citation presented to Corporate her by the Deputy Chief Communications, Mrs. Executive (Services), Mr. Gertrude Koomson among Kofi Ellis, on behalf of others. the Authority and read by Principal Human Resource Officer, Mrs. Gwendoline Jane Sam-Appiah, in part, described Mrs. Garbrah-Sarfo as an “unwavering, uncompromising and principled woman who worked for the Authority Mrs. Efua Garbrah-Sarfo with her husband and former C.E Mr. Sarfo

20 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ► Contd. from pg.20 Doctor's Corner SUGAR: WHY IT IS SWEET POISON (part 1) ugar is the name has high relative sweetness, being from that of glucose and its commonly given to the the sweetest of all naturally absorption is slower. S sweet-tasting, soluble occurring carbohydrates. HFCS is • Fructose is also transported into carbohydrates, many of mainly used in processed foods, cells via a different transporter than which are used in food. There are cereals, baked goods, and some glucose. Consuming glucose with various types of sugar derived beverages, as well as in soft drinks. fructose at the same time accelerates from different sources. Simple By its nature fructose intake does not the absorption of fructose. sugars are called lead to an increase in glucose and Unlike glucose, fructose does not monosaccharides and include insulin levels in the blood because of • stimulate a substantial insulin glucose (also known as dextrose), its low glycaemic index (0.2 release. fructose, and galactose. The "table compared to that of glucose which sugar" or "granulated sugar" carries the highest glycaemic index • When metabolized in the liver, it usually used as food is sucrose, of 1.0). It was therefore considered can provide glycerol, the backbone and made of two for use in weight management. of triglycerides (fat), and increase fat monosaccharides; glucose and However, a marked increase in formation. fructose. The average • Some people may have an person consumes about 24 inability to completely kilograms (53 lb) of sugar absorb fructose when they each year (33.1 kg in consume large quantities. developed countries), They suffer fructose equivalent to over 260 malabsorption marked by calories per person per bloating, flatulence, and day. There is increasing diarrhea. evidence that excessive • In contrast to glucose, intake of carbohydrates fructose is not essential for may have a role in the biochemical reactions. epidemic of obesity and Thus, we can manage insulin resistance. without it. Low-carbohydrate diets on The body has the capacity to the other hand have been convert glucose that is taken found effective at inducing weight in the diet to fructose; and studies loss, often with improvement in fructose intake in the USA during have shown that the harmful effects levels of fats in the blood. One of the early 70s also saw widespread of glucose are largely due to the the mechanisms by which these increases in weight. Whereas our conversion of glucose to fructose. are thought to happen revolves ancestors had problems to find sugar The following are some of the ways around the fructose content of (fruits at seasons and honey), research suggests sugar may be carbohydrate-containing foods. agricultural and industrial harming us: Fructose is found in many plant developments have made sugar Metabolic syndrome: Intake of sources like honey, fruits, flowers, cheap and abundant. fructose can induce all the features and root vegetables, and is one of This article will attempt to shed of the metabolic syndrome. the three basic forms of sugar that some light on how sugar endangers Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of our body can use as fuel (the other our health and the role fructose plays conditions — increased blood two are glucose and galactose). It in all that. Studies suggest that it is pressure, high blood sugar, excess is also found in high-fructose corn the fructose content in added sugars, body fat around the waist, and syrup (HFCS) which is derived which may account for why sugary abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride from corn starch. It is broken soft drinks are so strongly linked levels — that occur together, down to form corn syrup, which is with many health effects. increasing one’s risk of heart essentially 100% glucose. To Fructose differs from glucose in a disease, stroke and diabetes. make HFCS, enzymes are added number of ways: to corn syrup in order to convert • Fructose absorption in the intestine To be continued in the next edition. some of the glucose to fructose. It occurs by a mechanism different

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 21 VRA NEWS ► ENSURING GREEN BANKS THROUGH LOCAL INVENTION: (The Climate Smart Stoves) community members in the olta Lake, the main source construction of CSS is primarily designed to remove the of hydroelectric power is a Benefits associated with the use of smoke from the cooking area. strategic water resource CSS: • It has a long inner firepot of (L x V • Reducing forest degradation and asset for Ghana and H) 920 x 310 mm for front loading neighboring countries in through reduced consumption of of wood fuel. West Africa. Protection of this asset firewood as wood fuel in the Volta • The stove can accommodate two is a major concern to the Volta River Lake basin. (2) cooking pots (Size 3 and Size Authority (VRA). In addition to • Reducing emission of biogenic 1½) weighing 1.711 kg and 1.132 kg protecting the Lake, VRA is greenhouse gases (GHGs) and respectively) instantaneously. entrusted with the protection of the mitigating climate change impacts, • The top frame or structure of the Volta Lake environment. which can be used as part of the combustion chamber Six (6) pieces Since 1994, VRA through its Authority’s efforts to offset of iron rods of dimension 12 x 600 agency, the Environmental & mm (D x L) were used to Sustainable Development reinforce the. Department (E&SDD) has used • The gap between the pots diverse means to ensure proper base to the floor of the firepot protection of the Volta Lake. is 300 mm. Some of these strategic • The walls of the combustion interventions include: chamber are 220 mm thick • Organization of environmental without lining and has an education programmes in overall dimension (L x W x riparian communities and H) of 950 x720 x 330 mm. schools. Performance of the CSS • Establishment of forest cover After a scientific assessment along the banks of the Volta Lake in terms of fuel efficiency and and some of its tributaries carbon savings, in (Reforestation). comparison with the • Provision of alternative traditional ‘tripod cook livelihood ventures (examples) Community member using CSS at Odomitor in the Biakoye District stoves’; the CSS has been • Banning of human activities identified as being more that are inimical to the environment efficient in the use of fuelwood; of the Volta Gorge environment greenhouse gases emissions from its with fuel savings of 51.45% and a such as; felling of trees, sand power plants. fuel processing rate of 76.6%. In winning, draw-down farming, cattle • Reducing householders' cash terms of carbon dioxide savings, the grazing, and charcoal making. outlays for fuelwood. CSS is superior with 664kg Co2 Introduction of the Climate • Diminishing the time community savings per year per stove. Smart Stoves (CSS) members must spend to collect fuel Additionally, the CSS also meets the In 2016, the VRA in collaboration wood, reducing air pollution, and Energizing Development (EnDEV) with the Fisheries Commission, relieving local pressure on wood requirement of 40% fuel saving and Asuogyaman Zonal Office; resources. therefore qualifies to be promoted introduced the fuel efficient and • Reducing exposure to excessive for both domestic and institutional energy saving cook stoves Climate smoke and heat. usage. Smart Stoves to 20 riparian Features of the Climate Smart Future Prospects of CSS communities of the Volta Lake, as Stove It is the intention of VRA to an additional intervention to reduce • The CSS is built from clay with replicate the CSS in all the forty (40) the consumption of firewood as a small quantity of sand (0.5% of total riparian communities which are fuel in the Volta Lake Basin, volume) and water. implementing its reforestation through hands-on training of • The stove has an elevated chimney programme. of diameter 100 mm fitted behind and

22 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS ►

THE MavisMORNING B. Osei - Intern CCU, Accra HOAX

n a very cloudy morning on the assembly point of the building, while to see if it will sound again Thursday, June 21, 2018, I whilst we joined. Subsequently, before we returned to our offices O got to work around 6:30am others joined. I was informed by a with everyone complaining about to complete a research work staff that the sound was an the incident. Some were really tired my supervisor had assigned me the emergency alarm. It was then I because they had to come down day before. started looking for my other from the eleventh floor. I was engulfed so much in what I colleagues who were not around Even though we did well by was doing that I became oblivious of because i feared something might responding to the sound because it my surrounding. As I read, I heard have happened to them, I sighed showed how attentive we were to the an unusual alarm sound within the with relief when I realized they were emergency alarm, we were reluctant building but my concentration on the all around. in getting down. That could have document left me nonchalant. After On the lawn, people had gathered in caused a stampede if we had started a while, I noticed the sound was groups discussing what had rushing once they realized it was an getting louder, there, I got concerned happened. Whiles at it, a tall, light actual emergency. and decided to find out what was skinned gentleman came to address Based on my observation I realized happening. To my surprise, us that it was a fault that triggered it took 15 to 20 minutes for everyone everyone on my floor had started the alarm and it has been resolved.It to exit the building which should not moving out of their offices heading was after he left that my colleague be so. According to some of the towards the staircase. worker told me he was the safety staff, they thought it was a drill One interesting observation was officer. because it usually happens when that, everybody was heading down We then left to our various offices, they are testing how staff will using the staircase. So I asked everything had returned to normalcy respond to the alarm should there be myself, ‘’ why exit the building as work continued. a fire outbreak making them delay. using the staircase while the After three hours, the alarm started I therefore believe that all staff elevators are relaxed?’’. Without an sounding again. As usual, people should be sensitized on the need to answer, and also lost on what was started moving out. But this time exit the building in time in order to going on, I took my purse together around, the numbers on the staircase avoid massive stampede should with my phone and followed them had reduced drastically because they reality strike. without any idea of where we were thought it was another false alarm. heading towards. On heading After a short while, the alarm downstairs, others were gathered at stopped so we decided to wait a ING. ALEXANDER DUNCAN REYNOLDS RECEIVES KTPS SAFETY PERSONALITY AWARD Jackson Arhinful Arthur, NSP, CCU Section, GSD/Tema

ng. Alexander Duncan signed by the Plant Manager. Reynolds, Mechanical Also, a framed portrait picture I Maintenance Team Leader of the winner would be at the Kpone Thermal displayed at all vantage points Power Station (KTPS) has at the Station. been named recipient of the According to the Plant newly instituted KTPS Manager, KTPS, Ing. ‘Safety Personality Award’ Darlington A. Ahuble, the for the first quarter of the year objective for the award is to 2018. motivate staff to report For his award, Ing. hazards to prevent the Alexander Reynolds, was occurrence of accidents and presented with a citation incidents, with the view to Ing. Alexander Duncan Reynolds effect corrective actions.

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 23 Our Mission: OUR VALUES The Volta River Authority exists to power economies and ☼ Accountability raise the living standards of the people of Ghana and West ☼ Commitment Africa. We supply electricity and related services in a reliable, safe and environmentally friendly manner to add economic, ☼ Trust financial and social values to our customers and meet ☼ Integrity stakeholders' expectations. ☼ Teamwork

ROAD MAP TO THE NEW VRA

Power Sector GoG / MoEn Policy Reforms & Electricity Market Development Directives / Goals

VRA Financially Sustainable VRA 2018 VRA 2020 VRA 2022 VRA NEW VRA (Group or Holding (Functional SBU’s Company with for the Various/ Multiple Business Multiple Business Interests) Internal Leadership & Interests) Reorganization Succession & Restructuring Planning

I N THE N EXT ISSUE: Please send your concerns, questions, congratulatory messages, issues, worries, suggestions, etc., to [email protected] CE’S Sta Durbar Update on Propco’s Seperation For further information/enquiries, contact Corporate Communications Unit, Ensuring Green Banks Through Corporate O ce. Tel: +233 302 664941-9 Ext. 252, 236 & 453 Local Invention PLC 724252/413/309/453. Also visit w w.vra.com

24 | [email protected] / www.vra.com Corporate Communication Unit