NEWS

Newsletter Volume 7: April — May — June — 2016

OUR VISION Chief Executive Urges Setting the Standard Flood Victims To Remain for Public Sector Excellence in Africa Calm After Flood Disaster

Ø IN THIS ISSUE 

Chief Executive Urges Flood Victims to Remain Calm p1 VRA and CEL convert TT1PP & TCTPP into Combined Cycle Mode p4 VRA Staff Housing Loan Scheme — What You Need to Know p7 Information Risk Management p8 VRA College of Nursing Undergoes Institutional Inspection p10 How Long Do You Want to Live? p22 Ing. Kirk Koffi, arrowed, interacting with some of the flood victims

hief Executive of the Volta River Author- Project) and a tourist destination was submerged in ity (VRA), Ing. Kirk Koffi, has urged resi- water after five hours of torrential rainfall on Tuesday, dents in the Akosombo Township who May 23, 2016. The rains flooded the Community Two were affected by the floods to remain neighbourhood which include; New Quarters, Ako- calm as the Authority takes steps to ad- sombo Market, Church Ridge area, New Combine, dress the challenges caused by the disaster. etc. CThe Akosombo Township which has earned inter- Community Two is home to the bulk of the town's national reputation as the home of one of Africa’s most population and most commercial and business activi- successful development projects (Volta Development ties. Contd. on pg.2→

... We Add Value to Lives FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE

Chief Executive Urges Flood Victims To Remain Calm After

Flood Disaster ← Contd. from pg.1 On hearing the news of the ness to resolve the issues. Volta Lake Transport Company flooding, the Chief Executive and The Chief Executive further Ltd. urged the Authority to quick- a team of Management Staff and disclosed that he had instructed ly come to the aid of the victims. Engineers visited the flood scene the Engineering Services Depart- He admitted that no lives were to ascertain at first hand the ex- ment and the Akosombo Manage- lost. tent of damage. Speaking to the ment Committee (AMC) to work Giving an account of what hap- victims around “New Quarters”, together to address the situation. pened, the Mayor of Akosombo, the Chief Executive sympathized On behalf of the Authority, Mr. Edward Ofori, stated that pre- with the victims and assured them Ing. Koffi presented relief items vious days’ heavy rains had gotten of the Authority’s support; add- including forty bags of rice, seven the soil absorbing more water than ing that the VRA was concerned hundred pieces of canned fish and it could. He explained that the tor- about their safety and security and two hundred pieces of cooking rential rains on that day resulted would as a matter of urgency take oil to NADMO for distribution in the soil reaching its saturating the necessary steps to tackle the is- to the affected persons. The items point resulting in the water gush- sues to forestall future occurrence. were received by the Asuogyaman ing out from the hills. He said Ing. Koffi said: “In my thirty District Director of NADMO, Mr. since the Township drains could five years stay at Akosombo, I Love Joy Dusi and the Assembly- not contain the large volumes have never experienced this kind man for Lower Asukwao, Mr. of water, it caused the flooding of of flood that invaded homes and Frank Asukwao in the company of the Community Two neighbour- destroyed properties worth mil- other NADMO officials. hood, which happens to be a low lions of cedis.” He assured the resi- Speaking to the VRA News, lying area in the Township. dents of Management's prepared- a flood victim and worker at the “Akosombo is home to a pre-

VISIT US ONLINE: www.vra.com 

Corporate Social Responsibility Working at VRA — Social Enhancement Projects — Community Development A career at VRA is one to be proud of. Social Enhancement Projects for the Communities Programme Opportunities abound in personal development, include: To continually provide support for communities, rewards and aspirations. What is more, you - Classroom blocks the Authority has a Community Development will be challenged to thinking outside the box, Programme (CDP) under which communities also while contributing to the growth of an industry - Cold Store benefit from: leader. Whatever it is you do at VRA, you will - Potable Water know you are contributing to a cause which not - Youth Training Programme - Health Facility only impacts Ghana, but also the West Africa - Education sub-region. All these, and an organisation - Public Place of Convenience (KVIP) - Income Generating Activities deeply committed to accountability, teamwork, - Asphalted Road from Inchaban to Aboadze - Social Infrastructure integrity and trustworthiness. Welcome aboard! - A first Class Road from Inchaban to Dwomoh - Support for cultural activities

2 | [email protected] / www.vra.com FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE

“In my thirty five years stay at Akosombo, I have never expe- rienced this kind of flood that destroyed properties worth millions of cedis.” Ing. Kirk Koffi informed the victims that the VRA Management was quickly going to plan to re- solve the related issues.

dominantly migrant population with most of them existing ones were expanded to accommodate free mainly engaged in power generation and other ac- flowing water, particularly during the rainy seasons. tivities,” Mr. Ofori stated. He indicated that over the He stated that the process for the award of contract for years, the Township’s population had doubled, putting the desilting of the major drains around the Kyease pressure on the existing drainage system. According Cluster of Schools’ bridge and the VLTC-Stadium to him, the doubling of human activities in the Town- area has also been initiated. ship in general and in particular, poor environmental Concluding, he reiterated the need for all residents sanitation practices at “New Combine”, a suburb in to observe proper sanitation practices to ensure the the Township were the immediate causes of the flood- drains were free to prevent flooding. ing. In his view, the effect of climate change was a fac- tor that could not also be entirely discounted. To address the situation, the Mayor mentioned a short to long term plans that have been outlined to resolve the flooding challenges. In the short term, he said, the AMC would collaborate with NADMO to sensitize residents in the flood prone areas on what Ing. Kirk Koffi and his delegation inspecting one of the drains to do during the rainy season, the AMC would also engage the Traders and Drivers Association as well as opinion leaders at New Combine on the need for good environmental sanitation practices. Additionally, “we would remove fallen slabs and tree stumps in the drains opposite the Akosombo market and desilt the minor drains within the Town- ship,” he stated. He also mentioned plans to construct new drains, provide additional culverts and ensure Kyease Cluster of Schools compound submerged in water Contd. on pg.6

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 3 FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE

VRA and CEL convert TT1PP & TCTPP into Combined Cycle Mode

John CHobbah — CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, Tema

he Government of Ghana (GOG) has a National En- ergy Policy aimed at pro- Ø viding affordable access Tto electricity to all communities and becoming a net exporter of electricity in the short to medium term. It plans to do this by increas- ing generation capacity from the present 3,500MW to 5,000MW as DCE, E&O arrowed, addressing the gathering. well as upgrading the necessary transmission and distribution in- them to form a Steering Commit- good. “We’ve encouraged diverse frastructure. tee (SC) and an Implementation opinions and focused on the over- The Volta River Authority, (VRA) Team (IT). all objective to convert our exist- and CENIT Energy Limited (CEL) in In fulfillment of the JIA, VRA’s ing simple cycle units into com- May 2013 signed a Memorandum Deputy Chief Executive, Engineer- bined cycle mode.” of Understanding (MoU) in which ing & Operations (DCE, E&O), Ing. Ing. Badger said the role of the CEL undertook to raise additional Richard N.A. Badger, on behalf of SC among others include ensuring financing required to convert the the Chief Executive, inaugurated that their decisions are generally Tema CENIT Thermal Power Plant a seven (7) member SC compris- implemented by the IT which has (TCTPP) and VRA’s TT1PP into a ing three (3) representatives from been formed. combined cycle mode. VRA and four (4) representatives He said, the successful comple- To achieve this, Government from CEL. tion of the steam conversion proj- under the then Ministry of Energy They include Mrs. Alice Osei ect is expected to benefit both and Petroleum (MoEP) initiated a Okrah, Member, VRA Board, Ing. VRA, CEL and Ghana in general by Cooperation Agreement between Richard Oppong-Mensah, Direc- adding to the generation stock. He VRA, CEL and Quieros Galvao of tor Thermal, Eastern Operational disclosed, "the project will gener- Brazil (QG) under which QG agreed Area, Mr. Ebenezer Tagoe, Direc- ate extra electricity without addi- to provide the EPC services and tor Finance, VRA, and Ing. Snr. Fel- tional fuel cost, increase returns assist in mobilization, without sov- low Andrew T. Barfour, Member, on the equity contribution of GoG, ereign guarantee, the financing re- CENIT Board. The rest are Mrs. VRA and CEL; build the technical quired to fast track the implemen- Akosua Nelson-Cofie, Member, CE- competence and capacity of staff tation of the conversion process. NIT Board, Mrs. Eunice Biritwum, to be seconded to execute the To enable VRA and CEL confirm CEO, CEL and Mrs. Naada Bilijo Ji- project as well as create jobs." certain aspects of the EPC Con- napor, Board Secretary, CENIT. Ing. Snr. Fellow Andrew T. Bar- tract as well as collaborate in the The DCE, E&O noted that the four, on behalf of the SC thanked formation of a Project Company inauguration of the SC marks an the DCE, E&O for the confidence that would work towards the real- important milestone towards the reposed in them and assured him ization of the project, both parties realization of the project. He ob- of their commitment to fulfill the entered into a Joint Implementa- served that team work between task assigned them. tion Agreement (JIA) that requires both organizations has been very

4 | [email protected] / www.vra.com FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE

VRA will continue to Collaborate with Independent Power Producers

John CHobbah — CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, Tema

The Chief Executive of the ress of work at the two locations. pletion was ready to begin “hot Volta River Authority (VRA), Speaking further, he noted, as gas commissioning” using Distil- Ing. Kirk Koffi has stated that: an organization striving to Set the late Fuel Oil (DFO) after the suc- “Though the Independent Power Standard for Public Sector Excel- cessful completion of the “cold Producers (IPP) have come in as lence: “I am not perturbed about commissioning”. Station Man- competitors, the VRA recognizes the competition we face from the ager, Darlington Ahuble, assured them more as collaborators who IPPs. Instead, I will continue to the Chief Executive of his team’s have come to ensure the country lend my support to them to guar- preparedness to efficiently run achieves its target of increasing antee power sufficiency for Gha- the 200MW plant after its official the country’s generation capac- naians to ensure attainment of commissioning. ity.” Government’s goal of increasing From KTPP, the Chief Execu- Ing. Kirk Koffi made the com- generation to 5,000MW.” He indi- tive conferred with the Director ment when he paid a day’s famil- cated that the ultimate is to make Thermal, Eastern Operational iarization visit to the premises of Ghana a net exporter of electric- Area, Ing. Richard Oppong-Men- the Kpone Thermal Power Proj- ity in the short to medium term. sah, Plant Manager, Ing. Edward ect (KTPP) and the Tema Ther- Project Manager of KTPP, Mr. Obeng Kenzo, and the Ag. Op- mal Power Complex (TTPC) to Francis Agbenyo, indicated that erations Manager, Edward Dovlo. acquaint himself with the prog- KTPP which was nearing com-

Ethiopian Prime Minister And President Mahama Tour Akosombo Dam Nathaniel Ekue Mensah — CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, AKOSOMBO Prime Minister of the Federal Re- over fifty years and urged them to public of Ethiopia, H.E. Mr. Hailemar- continue maintaining the standard. iam Desalegn, has paid a working Chief Executive of the Volta River visit to the Akosombo Generating Authority, Ing. Kirk Koffi, who con- Station (AGS). Receiving the Prime ducted the visiting Prime Minister Minister, the President, John Dra- round the Authority’s facility was mani Mahama, underscored the grateful for the Prime Minister’s visit importance of the operations of the and pledged the Authority’s readi- Ethiopian Prime Minister and President Akosombo Hydroelectric Dam to the ness to exchange ideas with Ethiopia John Mahama in a tour of the Control Room socio-economic development of the in the area of hydroelectric power country. generation since it's currently invest- He said even though the country’s ing in a 6000MW hydro dam. focus is gradually shifting from the Present to welcome the Ethiopian dominance of hydroelectric power to Prime Minister were the Director, renewables and more thermal, hy- Hydro Generation, Ing. Charles des- droelectric power still plays a critical Bordes and the Ag. AGS Plant Man- role within the country’s energy mix. ager, Ing. Ebo Amoah. Officials of VRA welcoming H.E. H.E. Mr. Hailemariam Desalegn The visiting Ethiopian Prime Min- Hailemariam and President John Mahama commended the Management and ister was accompanied by his wife, to the AGS Staff of the Akosombo Generating H.E. Roman Tesfaye. Station for preserving the legacy for

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 5 FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE

Ing. Charles desBordes praises KfW’s Role in Ghana’s Energy Sector he Director, Hydro more strategic partnerships Generation, Ing. in the areas of Agriculture, Charles desBordes has Sustainable Economic De- T Shift Leader of the Operating Section, on behalf of the Manage- velopment and Decentralisa- Mr. Ocansey, explaining a point to the ment of the Volta River Au- tion. delegation thority (VRA) lauded KfW’s He stated: “KfW in its at- role in the development of tempt to implement its whole Ghana’s Energy Sector. portfolio, follows two prin- The Director made the ciples: promoting Ghana's assertion when he received ownership in development D r . N o r b e r t K l o p p e n b u r g , projects and aligning them a member of the KfW Devel- with Ghana's National Devel- Ing. Charles desBordes briefing KfW opment Bank Management opment Plan and Financial officials Board, who was visiting the and Procurement System.” Akosombo Hydroelectric KfW is one of the world's Power Station as part of a leading and most experi- 2-day working visit to Gha- enced promotional banks. na. Since 1961, it has actively Speaking on his arrival, supported the Government Dr. Norbert Kloppenburg of Ghana on behalf of the VRA and KfW officials in a group photo- commended the staff for German Government. graph their hard work and noted Dr. Norbert Kloppen- that aside KfW’s current in- burg was accompanied by vestment in the promotion a member of the German Expert-Energy and Financial of renewable energy within Parliament, Mr. Johannes Sector, Michael Oppong-Ad- jei. the country, his outfit was Selle; Country Director, Birte Nathaniel Ekue Mensah also looking forward to Schorlemmer; and the Local — CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, AKOSOMBO

Kpone Thermal Power Station Inaugurates Work Area Safety Committee Samuel deGraft-Johnson — Corporate Communications, Accra

he Kpone Thermal Power Station (KTPS), The WASACO, aimed at ensuring the safety of has inaugurated its Work Area Safety all staff, is expected to conduct regular inspec- TCommittee (WASACO) ahead of the official tions of the generating plants and its environs as inauguration of the power station. well as audit work tools once every month. The 15-member Work Area Safety Commit- Present at the inauguration were; Manager, tee inaugurated on March 1, 2016 at the Kpone Safety, Mr. Samuel Odartey Lamptey, Mr. Michael Thermal Power Project site, Tema, is chaired by Yerenkyi, and Mr. Peter Mingle all from the Tech- the Plant Manager, Ing. Darlington Ahuble. nical Services Department.

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

VRA STAFFSTAFF HOUSING HOUSING LOAN SCHEMELOAN SCHEME — WHAT QUARTERLY YOU NEWSLETTERNEED TO KNOW

INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION

TheThe VRA Staff Staff Housing Housing Loan Loan Scheme Scheme was (SHLS) established was established in August in1992 August, as a 1992vehicle as fora ve -granting Key Facts hicleloans for to granting eligible staffloans to to purchase, eligible staff construct, to purchase, expan dconstruct, or complete expand an existingor complete structure an for existingresidential structure use only for in residential any location use of only the in beneficiary’s any location choice. of the Howeverbeneficiary’s, staff choice. would be 2 Bedroom Properties - Average Rents However,required tostaff move would into bethe required building to after move completion into the ifbuilding the house after is withincompletion the beneficiary’s if the housework islocation within. theIf thebeneficiary’s house is notwork with location.in the Ifbeneficiary’s the house is work not withinlocation, the theybenefi- will be Tema (Estate) GHS 800/Mth ciary’srequired work to location,give VRA thethey first will right be required of rental to. give VRA the first right of rental.

Tema GHS 500/Mth ELIGIBILITYELIGIBILITY CRITERIA CRITERIA Permanent employees of the Authority who have accumulated at least 8 years con- Dansoman GHS 500/Mth Permanent employees of the Authority who have accumulated at least 8 years continuous tinuousservice areservice eligible are toeligible apply tofor apply the loan. for the loan. Kasoa GHS 500/Mth

PERIOD OF THE LOAN Nsawam GHS 400/Mth PERIOD OF THE LOAN The loan repayment period is up to 15 years. All loans plus interest would be recov- The loan repayment period is up to 15 years. All loans plus interest would be recovered Dome GHS 600/Mth ered before the 59th birthday of the applicant. before the 59th birthday of the applicant. Adenta GHS 700/Mth MODEMODE OF OF APPLICATION APPLICATION Interested applicants should apply to the Director, Real Estates for the Housing Loan Interested applicants should apply to the Director of Real Estates for the Housing Loan forms. The letter should state whether the applicant wants to purchase a house from 3 Bedroom Properties – Average Rents forms. The letter should state whether the applicant wants to purchase a house from an an estate developer, undertake a new construction or complete an existing building. estate developer, undertake a new construction or complete an existing building. Tema(Estate) GHS 1,200/mth PURCHASINGPURCHASING FROM FROM AN AN ESTATE ESTATE DEVELOPER/PRIVATE DEVELOPER/PRIVATE INDIVIDUAL INDIVIDUAL Tema GHS 700/Mth For applicants purchasing from developers, the following documents are required: For applicants• Offer letter purchasing from fromthe preferred developers Developer the following or Vendor documents are required: Dansoman GHS 1200/Mth •  CopyOffer of letter the Developer from the preferred or Vendor’s Developer Land Title or Certificate Vendor or Fully Registered Kasoa GHS 800/Mth  IndentureCopy of the Developer or Vendor’s Land Title Certificate or Fully Registered Indenture Nsawam GHS 600/ Mth • Completed purchase agreement form  Completed purchase agreement form Dome GHS 1000/Mth SELF CONSTRUCTION/COMPLETING EXISTING BUILDING SELF CONSTRUCTION/ COMPLETING EXISTING BUILDING Adenta GHS 1200/ Mth Applicants should submit the application forms with the following documents: Applicant• Registereds should submit Indenture the applicationor Land Title forms Certificate with the following documents: • ApprovedRegistered Building Indenture Drawings or Land Title Certificate Mortgage Interest Rates (Gh¢) • BillApproved of Quantities Building certified Drawings by a Quantity Surveyor stating works completed  andBill worksof Quantities outstanding certified by a Quantity Surveyor stating works completed and HFC Bank 29% • Buildingworks outstanding Permit  Building Permit Ghana Home Loans 32 % HINT – MORTGAGE LIFE INSURANCE The Secretariat would want to encourage housing loan beneficiaries to take Mort- Fidelity Bank 15% HINT – MORTGAGE LIFE INSURANCE gage Life Insurance to protect loved ones from any financial burden in case of any Ecobank 27.95% eventuality.The Secretariat would want to encourage housing loan beneficiaries to take Mortgage Life Insurance to protect loved ones from any financial burden in case of any in-eventuality. QUICK VIEW OF 2 Bedroom (Gh) 3 bedroom(Gh) Location Plot Size (ft) Inflation Rate – 18.5% HOUSES FOR SALE:

EstateQUICK Developer VIEW OF 2 Bedrooms (Gh) 3 bedroom(Gh) Location Plot Size (ft) Contact: HOUSES FOR SALE: Nana Adjoa Mensah-Darkwa (Mrs.) DevtracoEstate LtdDeveloper $92,000 $154,800 Tema(Com 25) 35*80/65*80 PLC: 728-122 Devtraco Ltd $92,000 $154,800 Tema(Com 25) 35*80/65*80 Email: nana.mensah- [email protected] Cedars Real Estates ¢135,000 (terr.) ¢300,000 East Legon hills 25*70/50*85 Cedars Real Estates 135,0000 (terr.) 300,000 East Legon hills 25*70/50*85 Rosemond Akuffo-Okae (Mrs.) Blue Rose Const. Ltd 115,000 (terr.) 255,000 (SD) Budumburam 60*80/65*80 PLC: 728-128 BlueGHS Rose Housing Const. LtdLimited ¢115,000190,000 (terr.) ¢255,000 (SD)301,000Budumburam Kuntunse60*80/65*80 60*61/60*66 AS AT JUNE 1, 2016 Email:[email protected] GHS Housing Limited ¢190,000 ¢301,000 Kuntunse 60*61/60*66

AS AT JUNE 1, 2016

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 7 VRA NEWS►

Information Risk Management iNTRODUCTION tion assets by cyber thieves, com- We are discussing, in this is- petitors, dissatisfied employees, sue of the Newsletter, Information foreign agents, natural or human Risks and its Management, anoth- caused disaster (e.g. fire, flood er type of risk exposure, whose oc- and earthquake) leading to loss or currence could negatively impact damage of records and Informa- VRA’s operations and reputation. tion Systems. It is our hope that you have drawn key lessons from our pre- Vulnerabilities are weaknesses vious articles, which include Stra- that allow a threat to attack in- tegic Risk Management, Financial formation. Examples include un- Risk Management, Human Re- patched servers and workstations, source Risk Management, Opera- inadequately managed access con- when information on off-shore tax tional Risk Management, among trol, weak passwords, untrained havens and other client informa- others. personnel, ill-defined employee tion were published in the Panama termination procedures, inad- Papers, after an enormous cache What is Information Risk? equate incident response, disaster of its documents between 1970 Information is an essential as- recovery and information continu- and 2015 was leaked to the news set of every organization. Good ity planning, etc. Inaccessibility media. and quality information go a long of records, for example, could be This resulted in millions of con- way to enhance work efficiency, the result of inadequate indexing, fidential documents concerning improve decision-making, and al- technological obsolescence ren- politicians, business leaders and low organizations to gain competi- dering the records unreadable or celebrities being disclosed. The tive advantages. Information must unauthorized records destruction. leaked documents involved five however have the qualities of con- heads of state from Argentina, Ice- fidentiality, integrity, availability, Examples of information land, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, and reliability and relevance. risks occurrences the United Arab Emirates as well Information Risk is harm Security incidents on computer as government officials, close rela- caused to a business as a result of networks and the consequences of tives, and close associates of vari- a compromise on confidentiality, third parties gaining unauthorized ous heads of government of more integrity, availability and nonre- access to sensitive data is one of than forty other countries. This pudiation of its information. This, the major risks of Information Sys- caused public unrest in some of in other words, is the risk of un- tems, which is a growing problem these countries and tarnished the authorized access to information, for institutions that utilize tech- image of the parties involved. It incorrectness/misrepresentation nology. A few institutions have re- actually resulted in the resignation of information, failure of Informa- cently been profiled in the media, of the Prime Minister of Iceland, tion Systems to meet information not for their products or services, Sigmundur Davio Gunnlaugsson. requirements and ability of per- but for their alleged failure to pro- The company informed its cli- sons to deny issues concerning in- tect non-public or private informa- ents on April 3, 2016 that the formation creation, usage or modi- tion in their custody. confidential files were obtained fication. A recent example is what has through a hack of the company's Information risks are of two now been christened as the “Pan- email server. Forbes Magazine main forms: Threats and Vulner- ama Papers”. The institution in- however, suggested that the firm's abilities. volved here, is Mossack Fonseca & information security was poor, Company, a Panamanian law firm that Mossack Fonseca was run- Threats to information are, for ex- and corporate services provider ning old versions of key tools, and ample, the risk of fraud, malicious founded in 1986, with more than had information security vulner- and harmful codes such as virus 40 offices worldwide currently. abilities. attacks by hackers, theft of elec- The Firm received worldwide In our current global village, a tronic information and informa- media attention in April 2016, company’s information resources

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

Causes of information risks The following actions depict some of the causes of information risks:

CAUSE DESCRIPTION

Unauthorized Unauthorized or accidental release of classified, personal, or sensitive information; Disclosure affecting confidentiality.

This is when Information Systems fail to complete set transactions of data transfer Interruption or execution. This could be caused by a Denial of Service Attack (DoS) or system breakdown. This affects the availability of information.

Unauthorized An unauthorized modification, insertion or deletion of data will compromise confiden- Modification tiality, availability, integrity and nonrepudiation of the data.

Theft of physical Information System assets and data would affect the confidentiality Theft and availability of information.

Destruction All types of natural occurrences (e.g. earthquakes, flood, etc.) that may damage or affect systems/application, thus affecting availability.

Failure of a design to meet the business and control needs of the organization that Ineffective Design an Information System is meant to serve. This could affect various aspects of the information depending on the design flaw.

Failure of users to provide the required instruction and configuration for Information Ineffective Execution Systems to produce the expected results. This could affect the integrity of the infor- mation.

Nonadherence to Improper enforcement of rules and regulations to govern and manage the use of Rules and Regulations Information System.

Misuse of Information Systems that could result in undesirable performance/break- Inappropriate Use down of the Information System. An example is the misuse of data bandwidth. This could affect the availability of Information Systems. are always at risk, which calls for Some classes of Information Below are some of the key con- the need to safeguard information Systems controls include: trols that need to be considered: assets. 1. Administrative controls, which i. IT Governance Structure: The Management of Informa- include policies, standards, pro- organization must have an effec- tion Risks cedures, guidelines, personnel tive IT governance body that sees Information Risk Management screening, awareness training, etc. to the proper alignment of Infor- is defined as the coordinated ac- mation Systems to its business tivities to direct and control an 2. Technical controls, which in- needs, to ensure that the desired organization with regard to risks clude network logins and pass- benefits are derived from all Infor- associated with the ownership, words, firewalls, audit logs encryp- mation System Assets. This body adoption and use of Information tion, antivirus and spam filters. must also be accountable for pro- Systems. tection of such assets of the orga- Information Risk Management 3. Physical controls which include nization. sees to the identification, analy- door locks, cameras, environmen- sis, evaluation and establishment tal controls, guards, etc. Proper ii. User Awareness Training & Ed- of controls to manage threats and implementation of suitable con- ucation: Information users must vulnerabilities identified within trols would enable an organization receive regular training and edu- an organisation’s Information Sys- to effectively manage information cation in the organization’s infor- tems. risks. mation security policies and their Contd. on pg.11→

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

VRA College of Nursing Undergoes Institutional Inspection by the National Accreditation Board

he Volta River Authority's (VRA) College of Nursing has undergone institutional inspection by the Na- tional Accreditation Board (NAB) as part of require- Tments to secure accreditation. The VRA College of Nursing is seeking to train and award a three-year Diploma in Registered General Nursing. According to the Medical Director of the VRA Health Services, Dr. (Mrs.) Rebecca Acquaah-Arhin, "running a Nursing and Midwifery Training College would improve rev- enue flow, equip the VRA Hospitals with manpower and pass on to the nursing students a culture of quality health care delivery." Participants in a round table discussion She was hopeful the facility would pass all the tests and In the interim, the VRA College of Nursing is located at inspections so that operations could start by the beginning the premises of the VRA Academy at Akuse and has in- of the 2016/2017 academic year. stalled ultra-modern facilities such as a Skills Laboratory, She said the VRA College of Nursing would enhance Information Communication Laboratory, a Hundred-seater the brand visibility of Health Services Department and the Capacity auditorium, a well stocked Library, Classroom and Authority in general. Offices among others. The College would also run a hostel Principal of the College, Mrs. Sussie Van-Brocke, stated: system as a means of providing accommodation for the "the accreditation process involved a series of programmes students. and inspections that needed to be met by the College prior The College is to be affiliated to the Kwame Nkrumah to the official recognition of the Board appointed to oversee University of Science and Technology and trainees would the affairs of the Health Service Department as a Strate- have the opportunity to practise at the VRA Hospital in gic Business Unit." The Accreditation process involves fa- Akosombo, Korle–Bu Teaching Hospital, Pantang Psychi- cility visit by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, Affiliation atric Hospital, Koforidua and Ho Government Hospitals. inspection by the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science Students would also have the opportunity to undertake and Technology, Inspection by the Library, Architecture and other International programmes as part of their training pro- Programme Accreditation Divisions of NAB. gramme.

Ing. Charles desBordes Appointed Director, Hydro Generation Nathaniel Ekue Mensah — CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, AKOSOMBO he Volta River Authority has appointed Ing. Charles desBordes, the nation. He is also expected Tformer Plant Manager of the Akosombo Generating Station, as to provide leadership within Director, Hydro Generation. the Department while ensuring Prior to his appointment, Ing. desBordes was responsible for the that staff recognize their role in management, maintenance and operation of the generating stations. achieving the objectives of the He liaised with the System Control Centre of the Ghana Grid Com- VRA. pany (GRIDCo.) to offer the best generation options for the power Ing. desBordes hopes to system when necessary. improve on the maintenance The new Director is required to provide Strategic Management practices of the Department of the Authority’s two hydro dams in Akosombo and Kpong to en- and train staff to maximize their able the VRA to achieve its objective of providing reliable power to full potential. Ing. Charles desBordes

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

Information Risk Management Claudia Gyeke-Aboagye ← Contd. from pg.9 Appointed Board Secretary personal responsibilities for protecting information. Ini-am Sulemana — Service person, Corporate Communications Unit, Accra iii. Computer and Network Security: IT staff must securely manage the technology infrastructure in a defined and documented manner that adheres to ef- fective industry information security practices.

iv. Physical and Personnel Security: The Organiza- tion must have appropriate physical access controls, guards, and surveillance systems to protect the work environment, server rooms, phone closets, and other areas containing sensitive information assets. Back- ground investigations and other personnel manage- ment controls must also be in place. Mrs. Claudia Gyeke-Aboagye he Volta River Authority has appointed Mrs. Claudia v. Third-Party Information Security Assurance: Or- Gyeke-Aboagye as the Board Secretary. ganizations must share sensitive information with As Board Secretary, Claudia will be responsible for third parties only when it is assured that the third- T party appropriately protects that information. coordinating and liaising with the Executive Management to ensure effective, efficient and timely dissemination of informa- tion to the Board and also ensure that administrative proce- vi. Periodic Independent Assessment: Organizations must have an independent assessment or review of dures are complied with to uphold best governance practices their information security system, covering both tech- in the Authority. nology and management, at least annually. Mrs. Gyeke-Aboagye joined the VRA in July 1998 as an Assistant Administrative Officer in the office of the then Depu- Conclusion ty Chief Executive, Engineering and Operations. She however Information and its proper management contrib- did not get the opportunity to work there as she was reas- ute to the achievement of organizational goals. An signed to the Board Secretariat, weeks upon assumption of organization’s Information Security Management Pro- duty. gramme must prudently and cost-effectively manage Until her substantive appointment, she worked as the As- the risk to critical organizational information assets sistant Board Secretary and also acted as Board Secretary for by identifying all threats and vulnerabilities and put- about a year when the position was vacant. ting appropriate control measures in place to manage them.

New Plant Manager For Akosombo Generating Station Nathaniel Ekue Mensah — CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, AKOSOMBO he Manager of the Mechanical Maintenance Until his appointment, Ken Arthur was responsi- TSection of Akosombo Generating Station (AGS), ble for planning and implementing mechanical main- Ing. Kenneth Mensah Arthur has been named as the tenance works at the hydroelectric power station as new Plant Manager of the Station. well as other electro-mechanical installations within Ing. Ken Arthur is expected to lead the Manage- the Akosombo Township. He ensured compliance of ment Team of the Akosombo Generating Station to the Authority’s rules and regulations and adherence ensure optimal operation of the hydroelectric power to safety procedures within the Mechanical Section. station, in an efficient and cost effective manner, to Ing. Ken Arthur hopes to work to ensure the meet all contractual and commercial obligations re- continuous relevance of the VRA in the face of the garding electricity production, in a safe and reliable current deregulation exercise within the power sector manner. in Ghana. Ing. Kenneth Mensah Arthur

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 11 VRA NEWS►

VRA Must Speak Out In Defence of Its Professional Integrity samuel cann — Corporate Communications Unit, Aboadze

embers of Staff of the Volta River Authority’s MTakoradi Thermal Power Station (TTPS), Aboadze, have unanimously expressed the ur- gent need for the VRA to speak out in defense of the Authority’s achievements. This is in reaction to the recent public outcry by a section of the public regarding the Author- ity’s performance in the face of the recent chal- lenges in the power sector. They are of the view that, if not checked, it will end up eroding the At the durbar were right to left: Plant Manager, Ing. Ing. Alfred D. Sackeyfio achievements of the Authority. The staff there- Stephen Owusu and Maintenance Manager, fore called upon the Corporate Communications Ing. Isaac D. Manu Unit to continue educating the public on the Au- generation successes as well as challenges. Speaking to the gathering, thority’s unmatched performance. he shared with staff what needs to be done for the Station to stay com- Newly appointed Director Thermal, Western Operational Area, Ing. petitive. The members of staff expressed their commitment to increase Alfred D. Sackeyfio, briefed the workers at a staff durbar on the current efficiency of the TTPS. WATER EVERYWHERE BUT NONE TO DRINK! Kwesi Eyeson — VRA Academy, Akuse t is not that VRA staff do not have good ideas to give to Management - the problem has always been how to package the ideas so that they would be Iaccepted. That is why I have decided to put this idea across to Manage- ment through this medium. We all know that the major raw material for VRA is water and this is abun- dantly provided by the Volta River. However, after going through the hydro dams at Akosombo and Kpong, the water flows slowly and mockingly into the sea at Ada, completely wasted. Why should it be so? And yet, VRA buys water for some of its operations. If you doubt this just find out how much bottled water we buy for our business outlets such as the Mess Halls and Club Houses, and also for meetings and corporate social events. Why can’t VRA produce its own branded bottled water for its own use and for sale to the public? For those who are not aware, VRA already has a water processing plant (waterworks) at Akosombo which produces and sup- plies high quality potable water to the Akosombo Township and its surround- ing areas. Those who have tasted the water in Akosombo would bear witness to the fact that it is purer, odorless and more nourishing than water produced in other places. So we already have the infrastructure and the expertise. SETTING UP A VRA BANK If Management is thinking of creating Strategic Business Units (SBUs) I often wonder why if individuals and corporate bodies in the country can for some of its existing non-power departments, then this is also a good op- set up successful banks, a big corporate body like VRA can’t set up its own portunity to harness the water that flows freely and wastefully into the sea. bank? An example is ESKOM South Africa which has established its own In other words, VRA can set up a subsidiary water bottling company bank. downstream or partner with others to produce VRA branded bottled water for Looking at the way the VRA Provident Fund Scheme has been success- the Authority and for sale to the general public. I bet you, we would capture fully managed till date, there is no doubt that a VRA bank would be very the local and international market in no time because of the VRA brand. successful.

Shouldn't we take advantage of these wonderful business opportunity?

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

2016 Annual APUA Meetings Launched Michael Danso — Corporate Communications, Accra he Chief Executive of the Volta River Author- ity, Ing. Kirk Koffi, has officially launched the T2016 Association of Power Utilities of Africa (APUA) Annual General Meetings at the Electro-Vol- ta House in Accra. Launching the event, the Chief Executive who is also a Vice President of APUA, stated that “the Meet- ing would offer member institutions the opportunity to redirect their strategies that will help them deal Ing. Abel Didier Tella, Director General, APUA, addressing with challenges in the power sector on the continent.” the gathering He reiterated that APUA exists to promote the development and integration of the African power systems through interconnection of networks, ex- change of experiences and know-how as well as the pooling of energy resources in a win-win approach for all members. He noted that the Association had worked towards the promotion of renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as rural electrification, promotion of interconnection of grids between coun- tries through the coordination of the forum of African Ing. Kirk Koffi launching the 2016 APUA Meetings Regional Power Pools. Ing. Abel Didier Tella, Director General of APUA, said the world has become a global village and makes it necessary to collaborate to deliver a more efficient service to clients across their member states. He indicated that “as part of the long term plan to have personnel to manage the power sector in the coming years, APUA has established a school from where engineers on the continent would be trained to live up to the challenges in the power sector.” The 50th APUA Annual Meetings is being co- A section of dignitaries at the meeting hosted by Volta River Authority (VRA), Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), Electricity Company of Gha- na (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) from Tuesday, July 12 to Fri- day, July 15, 2016 at the MÖVENPICK Ambassador Hotel, Accra on the theme: “Energy Development through Customer Management, Revenue Collec- tion and Energy Efficiency”. It will be attended by the 54-member institutions across 43 countries on the continent and will seek to address challenges relating Ing. Abel Didier Tella and Ing. Kirk Koffi posing to access to electricity in member states and the con- for the cameras tinent as a whole.

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 13 VRA NEWS►

Dr. (Mrs) Acquaah-Arhin VR A Sensitizes Stakeh olders On Proposed Clean Coal Power Project Commends Ghana Society Of Radiographers For Their Role The Volta River Authority (VRA) has held series Nathaniel Ekue Mensah of stakeholder engagements to provide education — CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, AKOSOMBO on its proposed 2X350MW supercritical coal-fired generating power plant to be cited at Aboano near Medical Director of the VRA Health Services, Otuam in Ekumfi in the Central Region. Dr. (Mrs.) Rebecca Acquaah-Arhin has com- The plant is to be constructed on a Joint Venture Partnership basis between VRA and its Chinese mended members of the Ghana Society of Ra- Partners, Shenzhen Energy Group Company Lim- diographers (GSR) for the role they play in the ited (SEC). It would be further expanded either to delivery of health services in the country. a 4×350MW (or 2×600MW) to meet future power Mrs. Acquaah-Arhin made the comment at demands. the Southern Sector Zonal Scientific Workshop It is being funded under a long-term China-Af- organized at Akosombo by the Ghana Society of rica Development Fund (CADFund) loan facility of Radiographers (GSR). Organised on the theme: about US$1.5billion “Imaging and treatment of abdomino-pelvic A recent Press Soiree brought together renowned Journalists including: Bernard Avle, host of Citi pathologies” the workshop brought together radiographers from the Volta, Eastern, Greater Accra, Central and Western regions. In a speech read on her behalf by Dr. Tarus Valmont, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the VRA Hospital at (Akosombo), the Medical Direc- tor urged radiographers to be guided by their code of ethics as their roles as radiographers play a key part in a patient’s diagnosis and treat- Ing. Richard Badger, addressing the journalists ment. Asuogyaman District Director of Ghana Health Services (GHS), Dr. Augustine Ankuvie, commended the society for instituting the work- Ing. Edward Obeng-Kenzo Made Pl ant Manager for Tema Thermal Power Complex shop to enhance knowledge sharing. john chobbah — GSR is an umbrella body of all Diagnostic Former Operations Manager of the Tema Ther- Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy Profession- mal Power Complex (TTPC), Ing. Edward Obeng- als in the country. Kenzo has been appointed the substantive Plant Manager for TTPC. Ing. Obeng-Kenzo until his appointment, served as Ag. Plant Manager for TTPC as well as Project Manager of the Tema Thermal 2 Power Project (TT2PP). His duties as Operations Manager includ- ed; liaising with the Plant Manager on budgetary is- Group photograph of participants after the workshop sues in the operations of the Complex, focusing on

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

VR A Sensitizes Stakeh olders On Proposed Clean Coal Power Project

Breakfast Show on Citi FM, Ken Kuranchie, Manag- quire cooling; adding that, water is used to cool the ing Editor of the Daily Searchlight, Napoleon Ato- steam used to make electricity in the power plant and Kittoe of GTV, A.C Ohene, TV Africa; Thomas Ado- to control pollution from coal plants. tei-Pappoe, TV3 Network Limited. For this reason however, he said, “we are going to It was mainly to dialogue and educate the press- use sea water at the facility. We will desalinate sea men on key issues regarding environmental manage- water just like we have at Nungua in Accra and use ment on the construction of the proposed plant. it for the proposed plant. We won’t have to rely on Opening the discussions, Ing. Richard Badger, water supply system of the Ghana Water Company Deputy Chief Executive, Engineering and Opera- Limited.” tions of VRA said, the Authority seeks to strengthen Mr. Ben Sackey, Manager, Environment and Sus- the country’s base load capacity and forestall any fu- tainable Development Department of VRA said: ture shortage of power when existing plants are due "Based on the project timelines, we expect to start for mandatory maintenance, hence, the need for the construction on April 17, 2017. But that is also de- clean coal power plant. pendent on getting a permit from the Environmen- Ing. Jacob Yawson, a member of the project team tal Protection Agency. We are working closely with said, coal plants as thermoelectric power systems, re- Contd. on pg.17→

Mr. Yawson facilitating a presentation Mr. Napoleon Atto-Kitoe of GTV making a point

Ing. Edward Obeng-Kenzo Made Pl ant Manager for Tema Thermal Power Complex Corporate Communications Unit, tema improving measurement of sta- stations as well as ensuring com- tion performance management, pliance in all areas of the Environ- procurement of goods and servic- mental, Health and Safety (EHS) es according to procurement plan, programs and procedures, cre- fuel and unit utilization planning ating and optimizing contractual among others. agreements with contractors and As Plant Manager, Ing. Obeng- suppliers; promoting and foster- Ing. Edward Obeng-Kenzo Kenzo is expected to report to the ing teamwork among staff and Director for the effective and ef- Plant Management. ficient operation of all the power

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 15 VRA NEWS►

Re-Inventing VRA Through A “Socially-Responsible” Process

Dear reader, in the last edition of the VR A N e w s , w e p r o m i s e d t o p u b l i s h t h e n e w l y appointed Director of HR’s strategy paper for the Authority. Please find below the paper as presented by the Director, Mr. George Koranteng.

INTRODUCTION Re-inventing Process will involve: 1. Reorganising and repositioning The Volta River Authority is con- the power business in response to fronted with some challenges which LI 1937 and other key issues driving requires it to respond more radically the power market in order to thrive in the emerging business environment. The chal- 2. Reorganise and strengthen non- lenges include: power functions to unlock the eco- • Power Sector Reform (PSR) and its nomic potential inherent in those regulations including LI 1937 portfolios • Emergence of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and the attendant 3. Realign other support service HR Director, Mr. George Koranteng competition functions • Over capacity in the power system 10. Implement a socially responsible 4. Develop and negotiate more mar- • Cash Flow constraints change process involving all the so- ket-place practices and systems into • Low reservoir level cial partners to ensure success and our business operations to thrive in The combined effect of these factors long term sustainability a competitive power market present a compelling situation for 11. Improve technology culture by the Authority to respond in a man- 5. Develop a more agile, multi-skilled attaching reward and sanctions re- ner that will enable it to thrive and workforce for improved productivity remain relevant in the power mar- gime to the usage of Authority's IT u Intra and inter departmental job systems especially EBus suites to: ket. A number of interventions and rotation initiatives are required to be imple- u optimise investment in IT appli- u Requisite and targeted training mented. cations 6. Develop and build leadership ca- u improve efficiency and effective- HR's STRATEGIC ROLE pacity and pipeline same for effec- ness and overall productivity tive and seamless succession for all HR remains pivotal in these key critical positions, including levels Engaging for partnership and re- transformation process because of 1-4 positions sources for implementation suc- the “people issues” which underpin cess: The OD/HR interventions and the interventions and eventually 7. Improve trust among the Author- initiatives will require a lot of social would determine their overall suc- ity’s primary stakeholders/social partners buy-in and support as well cess or otherwise. partners (management, staff groups as require resources to ensure suc- and Board) for sustainable industrial cess. Therefore HR will do the fol- Over-arching HR/organisation De- harmony and improved productivity lowing among others: velopment Goal in Reinventing VRA u Positively engage Management for HR will develop and realign systems, 8. Vigorously re-orient staff to be Executive buy-in and top level vis- structures, policies and procedures more engaged and productive in an ibility to facilitate and support the Author- ever-changing world of work/work u Dialogue with staff leadership and ity to reinvent itself to remain rel- environment entire workforce for cooperation evant in the reformed power indus- and support try/market as well as transform the 9. Improve institutional adaptation u Seek required resources for initia- non-power Strategic Business Units process through a vigorous Change tives. (SBUs) to be market leaders in their Management practices throughout respective industries. the organisation

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

VRA Sensitizes Stakeholders On Proposed Clean Coal Power Project ← Contd. from pg.15 EPA to ensure that all the stringent environmental requirements are met." The coastal town of Aboano was selected as the ideal location after initial consideration of sites in Domunli, Akwidaa and Komenda purely on techni- cal and economic bases, Mr. Sackey noted. As has been the practice, VRA continuously en- gages its major stakeholders and civil society groups A cross section of the media men listening to the presentation on any new engineering project it undertakes to ex- plain and educate them on contemporary issues re- and, non-profit environmental advocacy groups like garding the project. Ghana Youth Environmental Movement (GYEM) The Authority’s intention to generate electricity and 350 G-ROC in Accra. from coal on a large scale has generated controver- Following a successful completion of a prefeasi- sies and has brought several environmental advo- bility study of the project, scoping notice and design cates who are inclined with atmospheric dynamics of the plant have been served; to enable individuals, into the fray. groups and organizations with special interest, con- Some of the major stakeholders who have been cerns and expert knowledge on the environmental engaged so far on the coal project have included state impact, equip the Environmental Protection Agency institutions such as; the Ministry of Power, Environ- (EPA), VRA and SEC with it. mental Protection Agency, the Energy Commission Michael Danso — Corporate Communications, Accra

Hydro Co-Operative Credit Union ADJUDGED Best Credit Union In Ghana Nathaniel Ekue Mensah — CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, AKOSOMBO he Hydro Co-operative Credit Union (HCCU) has been awarded the best performing Credit Union Tin Ghana for the 2014/2015 financial year. In addition, the HCCU also received two other awards; Union with 5% of total assets deposited in the Central Finance Facility (CFF) and the best Risk Com- pliance Union at the Ghana Cooperative Credit Union Association biennial conference held in Accra. Manager of the Hydro Co-operative Credit Union,

Mr. Joseph Garti, told the VRA NEWS, “the award is in Mr. Garti receiving the award on behalf of his colleagues recognition of our success within the industry and also He added, “though the membership of the Union is not throws a challenge to us to aspire higher. Even though we as large as others, we continued to play according to the are not in competition with anybody, we try to be the best rules in order to give value for money to our members.” in what we have been doing over the years by working Mr. Garti reiterated Hydro Co-operative Credit Union’s within the rules of the game,” he stated. commitment to help members attain a lifetime financial Contd. on pg.18→

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

Ing. Oppong-Mensah urges Staff to Takoradi Thermal Power Station Work Hard and eschew Indiscipline Gets New Plant Manger

Ing. Oppong-Mensah Ing. Stephen Owusu

he newly appointed Director Thermal, Eastern Opera- he Takoradi Thermal Power Station (TTPS) has a new tional Area (EOA), Ing. Oppong-Mensah has cautioned Plant Manager in the person of Ing. Stephen Owusu. all staff of the EOA to continue working hard and eschew T With his current position, Ing. Owusu would be re- indiscipline. T The remark was made when outlining his vision for the De- sponsible for ensuring the Plant is operated to achieve stra- partment at a staff durbar held at the conference room of the tegic operational and financial targets, direct and coordinate Tema Thermal Power Complex (TTPC). the Plant’s operations within the Authority’s policies and pro- Ing. Oppong-Mensah proposed various plans to re-engi- cedures; review activity reports and plant performance data neer the EOA to ensure it becomes the most reliable power to measure productivity as well as ensure that materials and producing area. He assured the staff that they will be provided services are procured within budget. with the experience needed for maintaining gas turbines so as to make the EOA staff the team of choice in the area of main- Before the appointment, Ing. Owusu served as Opera- tenance for IPPs in the Thermal Generation Business. tions Manager for TTPS and was responsible for planning, He urged staff to work hard on the ongoing maintenance organizing and coordinating the efficient and safe opera- work to ensure the work was completed on schedule. Ing. tions of the Plant’s generating assets. Additionally, he also Oppong-Mensah cautioned the staff to be disciplined, adding managed the Station’s chemical laboratory and Fire Unit. that they must also dress appropriately to project the image of the EOA and the VRA at large. samuel cann john chobbah — Corporate Communications Unit, TEMA — Corporate Communications Unit, Aboadze

Hydro Co-Operative Credit Union ADJUDGED Best Credit Union In Ghana ← Contd. from pg.17 freedom through the provision of a unique blend of sav- ings and loans at competitive rates as well as financial advisory services for the purpose of raising their stan- dard of living whilst ensuring the long term sustainabil- ity of the credit union. The HCCU which was established 44 years ago with the aim of becoming the most progressive credit union in Ghana through the provision of quality, innovative and lifelong financial solution to its valuable members had a total asset value of GH₵30,398,917.11 and a membership of 640 as at June 2015.

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

A BOOK LAUNCH WITH A DIFFERENCE! “Blessed And Highly Favoured — Testimony Of A Cancer Survivor” Cynthia ann aglah — Corporate Communications Unit, Accra

ay 20, 2016 was the long await- ed special day, the launch of the MPrecious Jewel; the book entitled, “Blessed and Highly Favoured - Testimony of a cancer survivor”. The event held at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Accra was attended by various dignitaries, class mates, work colleagues, church mem- bers, relatives and friends of the Authoress, making the 200 chair capacity Hall fully packed. Her book is about a true story and gives a ished hers a couple of hours earlier and my The Chairperson, “Nana Ekow Ackon” detailed account of her life before and af- goodness - what a profound piece of work) ! from the Oguaa Traditional Area (Cape ter being diagnosed with a life threatening We have all heard or seen movies about Coast), expressed her delight to be present disease – CANCER. Her fears and anxiet- cancer survivor stories, but trust me, nothing at the event. She stated: “she was grateful to ies, the treatment she underwent, the many quite prepares you for hearing it directly from God for how far He has brought the Author- questions she asked her maker, how her faith someone you personally know (in my case ess, and she knew the Lord who had begun in God was tested, increased and how she is since primary school). I salute you for the in- with her will surely accomplish what He had still surviving with her strong faith in God. credible courage it must have taken you to started.” In a heart touching speech, Mrs. Adum bare your soul as you did in over 200 plus In launching the book, the Executive Atta Berko, dressed in a splendid peach and pages, holding nothing back and telling it as Director of the Salt and Light Ministries, Dr. cream lace / kente Kaba and Slit, exhibited it is: the physical and psychological agony Joyce Rosalind Aryee, who was the Special great enthusiasm, joy and strength. There of your journey to this point, the victories Guest of Honour stated, “God still does mir- wasn’t a dry eye in the audience after her chalked up along the way, the uncountable acles.” highlighting on the peace God gives speech. setbacks you endured, etc. amid the everyday burdens of life, which is Will the book make you cry? Yes. Will it not of this world. She urged all the invited This is a great and inspiring woman make you laugh? In parts, yes, will it inspire guests to get a copy of the book since it will whose testimony is alive and kicking. She you and renew your faith? A big resounding touch the lives of many who find themselves knows that through all the changing scenes YES! I salute you.” in dire situations. of life, in trouble and in joy, the praises of her God shall still her heart and tongue employ. Most readers reported that they were un- In her address, Apostle Lyanne Koffi of She believes and will forever boast of her able to put the book down after they started the Lord’s Garden Ministry, encouraged the deliverance by God till all that are distressed reading and many had to sit up throughout guests to continue trusting in God no matter take comfort from her example and charm the night until they finished reading it. the situation they find themselves because their griefs to rest. God is still in the miracle business and will Yes, Madam Rita has experienced God surely handle any unfortunate situations in Reading this book will change one’s at- in a special way and we all thank God for His their lives. titude to life and give one a fresh perception mercies and grace towards her. We share in of who God is. her testimony and I will humbly ask everyone So who is the Authoress of this inspiring to get a copy of the book for themselves! book that was being launched? It is no other One gentleman who read the book re- than, Mrs. Rita Adumatta Berko. A blessed marked to her on a social platform as follows: Rita, Ayeekoo! May the Lord continue to and highly favoured beautiful lady with a "I finished reading my copy of your book prove his faithfulness onto you. beautiful soul. She is a lawyer by profession. in the wee hours of the morning. (My wife fin-

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 19 VRA NEWS►

VRA Participates in 11th WAMPOC 60 SECONDS IN THE ELEVATOR and 12th WAMPEX 2016 Conference

The 11th West African Mining & Power Confer- ence and the 12th West African Mining & Power

- Exhibition (WAMPOC & WAMPEX 2016), under the theme: “Sustaining Mining and Power Investments: Meeting stakeholder expectations in a challenging global environment,” was held at Accra International Conference Centre from June 1 - 3, 2016. This was to reinforce the need for businesses in the mining and power sectors to remain viable in the face of eco- nomic challenges whilst at the same time providing http://kandikane1719.deviantart.com/ art/Stuck-in-an-elevator-meme-Kan di-412443105 the hallmark for transformation of the sub-region. Have you ever been trapped in an elevator before? The first day was the opening of the conference Trust me, it is not an experience one would cherish. and exhibition with the event being opened by the Tuesday, the 19th day of May, 2016 was a normal Minister for Lands & Natural Resources, Hon. Nii working day. I used the elevator to the 7th floor in the Osah Mills. People from across the continent dis- morning though I knew, as other employees did that played their products and services. On the second the Electro–Volta House elevator occasionally mal- day, there was networking session and discussions. functions and workers and even visitors get trapped. Visitors, stakeholders, professionals and exhibitors used this platform as a networking opportunity to We complain about the incidence of traps, but we keep interact and share information and ideas on ways to the complains to ourselves. weather the current issues and understand the lat- I was to pick up mails from the Registry after 12 O’ est developments in their various sectors; the final clock in the afternoon. I got to the elevator, pressed day of the conference was about Corporate Social the down button and waited. After about what seems Responsibility where panel discussions were held. to be three to four minutes the door to one of the el- There was also an official visit to the exhibi- evators opened and I entered. I noticed first upon en- tion booths that was led by the Minister for Lands try that the lights in the elevator were off and the door & Natural Resources, Hon. Nii Osah Mills and oth- shut faster than usual. My first challenge was locating er key Stakeholders. Ten minute discussions were the right button to press for my destination, I ended held where Hon. Osah Mills directed that the VRA up pressing two buttons as I struggled to find the right re-opens a regular collaboration and engagement one. with the Chamber of Mines with its Energy Commit- Though I was expecting the elevator to move down- tee and improve on its customer relation activities. wards, I felt the elevator moving upwards and about An average of one hundred and thirty visitors a day a while halted. In the few seconds that followed, I did asked questions relating to “dumsor”, the state of not panic but rather wished I had my cell phone. Af- Ghana gas, the coal project and Renewable Energy, ter what seemed to me as 25–30 minutes, stories of the state of T3 132 MW, the water level of the Ako- elevator accidents which I have heared about started sombo dam and other relevant issues. running through my mind, then I became frightened. In general, the conference was a success as it Was the elevator going to crush down, how long am I was a unique opportunity for stakeholders to iden- going to be here, am I going to suffocate? tify, showcase and benefit from sustainable models I gathered courage to pray for divine intervention. to improve business efficiency for steady growth in Just as I closed my eyes, I felt a ray of light, I opened spite of prevailing bottlenecks. The VRA was able to my eyes and wow! The elevator door was wide open. I make its activities visible, initiated business relations hurried out and realized I was on the 9th floor. with various stakeholders in the following areas; pro- curement, gas supply, pump supply and power gen- Apparently my ordeal only lasted about sixty sec- erators for grid backup. The Authority was also able onds, though I felt like it had taken sixty minutes. to create partnerships and acquire international rela- My advice from this experience is, always remem- tions and got insight on cutting-edge technology for ber to carry your cell phone when you are heading for improved efficiency, achieving a reliable power sup- the elevator, do not board when you notice anything ply, sustaining investments and meeting stakeholder wrong, the stairs might be a better option if you are expectations. Participants were also enlightened on not in a hurry and the exercise will be beneficial to Clean Coal Power Project, Renewable Energy – solar your health. Finally if you are in there and all hope is and wind and informed about issues on “dumsor”. lost, resort to divine intervention.

20 | [email protected] / www.vra.com VRA NEWS► |1st & 2nd Quarter 2016 STAFF ATTRITION |

RETIREMENT NAME TITLE DEPARTMENT LOCATION DATE Ampadu, Mr. Kofi Principal Accounts Clerk NEDCo. Bolgatanga 01 Jan 2016 Abdulai, Mr. Amidu Senior Word Processing Operator NEDCo. Tamale 01 Jan 2016 Zibilim, Mr. Musah Adam Assistant Chief Technician Engineer NEDCo. Tamale 12 Jan 2016 Attefah, Mr. Alexander Yaw Head, Labourer (Cleaning) PROPCo. Akuse 12 Jan 2016 Ibrahim, Mr. John Watchman NEDCo. Bolgatanga 20 Jan 2016 Crentsil, Mr. David Arthur Chief Technician Engineer Hydro Generation Akuse 22 Jan 2016 Awudu-Karim, Mr. Musah Principal Estates Assistant NEDCo. Sunyani 26 Jan 2016 Amegbornor, Mr. James Labourer Sanitation PROPCo. Akuse 27 Jan 2016 Essuman, Mr. Emmanuel Kojo Dickmashie Assistant Chief Technician Engineer NEDCo. Sunyani 27 Jan 2016 Adjetey, Mr. Joseph Senior Driver General Services Accra 02 Feb 2016 Sackitey, Mr. Solomon Amenorvie Supervising Maintenance Mechanic Hydro Generation Akosombo 02 Feb 2016 Kumah, Mr. William Tettey Head, Hospital Orderly VRA Hospitals SBU Akosombo 12 Feb 2016 Odonkor, Mr. Samuel Head, Labourer Cleaning PROPCo. Akuse 12 Feb 2016 Adenu, Miss Rose Para Senior Steward VRA Schools SBU Akosombo 13 Feb 2016 Asiamah, Mr. Maxwell Twenefour Assistant Chief Technician Engineer Hydro Generation Akosombo 17 Feb 2016 Kwame, Mr. Isaac Fermi Assistant Chief Technician Engineer Hydro Generation Akosombo 24 Feb 2016 Yieri, Mr. Cyprian Annumba Principal Accounts Clerk NEDCo. Wa 24 Feb 2016 Alhassan, Mr. Achumburo George Principal Accounts Clerk NEDCo. Techiman 25 Feb 2016 Obiri, Miss Millicent Mary Principal Nurse VRA Hospitals SBU Akosombo 28 Feb 2016 Amponsah, Mr. Emmanuel Opoku Principal Computer Operator NEDCo Sunyani 28 Feb 2016 Goka, Mr. Samuel Kwasi Senior Driver Thernal Generation Akuse 04 Mar 2016 Obuobi, Mr. Benjamin Driver General Services Akosombo 06 Mar 2016 Angmor, Mr. Samuel Tetteh Supervising Maintenance Mechanic Environment & Sust. Devt. Akosombo 10 Mar 2016 Ahorlu, Mr. Henry Tetteh Area Manager, Finance Finance Akosombo 10 Mar 2016 Quarcoo, Miss Justina Ablah Senior Steward PROPCo. Accra 27 Mar 2016 Asante, Mr. Emmanuel Boadu Foreman PROPCo. Akuse 03 Apr 2016 Amoako, Mr. Kwesi Brenu Director, Hydro Generation Hydro Generation Akosombo 06 Apr 2016 Mawuna-Semaha, Mr. Nicholas Assistant Chief Technician Engineer Hydro Generation Akuse 12 Apr 2016 Williams, Mr. Kathleen Crawther Senior Driver PROPCo. Akuse 14 Apr 2016 Kontor, Miss Elizabeth Senior Word Processing Operator NEDCo. Techiman 15 Apr 2016 Asihene, Mr. Daniel Jackson Chief Technician Engineer Thernal Generation Aboadze 17 Apr- 2016 Dzordzorme, Mr. Felix Korbla Chief Technician Engineer General Services Akosombo 18 Apr 2016 Kale, Mrs. Christiana Kogh Principal Clerk/Typist NEDCo. Wa 24 Apr 2016 Adjepong, Mrs. Dorothy Opoku Superintendent (Teacher) VRA Schools SBU Aboadze 09 May 2016 Sutherland, Mr. Joseph William Deputy Chief Executive, Services Corporate Office Accra 10 May 2016 Klu, Miss Edith Akutor Senior Enrolled Nurse/Midwife VRA Hospitals SBU Akosombo 15 May 2016 Awuku-Abaidoo, Mrs. Lydia Abena Principal Nurse VRA Hospitals SBU Akuse 17 May 2016 Agyare, Mr. Ebenezer Head, Hospital Orderly VRA Hospitals SBU Accra 20 May 2016 Danzerl-Amedson, Mr. Joseph Kobina Senior System Analyst Mgt. Information Systems Accra 22 May 2016 Quarshie, Mrs. Adina Ayikailey Area Manager, Human Resources Human Resources Accra 30 May 2016 Kwoyigah, Mr. Charles Nazan Tirah Senior Watchman NEDCo. Techiman 15 Jun 2016 Bledjima, Mr. Daniel Awartey Head, Labourer General Hydro Generation Akuse 20 Jun 20166 Teye, Mr. Abraham Debrah Principal Accounts Clerk Finance Akosombo 23 Jun 2016 Opoku, Mr. Peter Principal Driver Environment & Sust. Devt. Akosombo 30 Jun 2016 Asare, Mr. Samuel Lawer Driver Human Resources Akuse 30 Jun 2016 Ayim, Mr. Seth Principal Clerk PROPCo. Akosombo 30 Jun 2016 Awuni Danyima, Mr. Dantumah Yakubu Principal Driver NEDCo. Tamale 30 Jun 2016

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 21 VRA NEWS►Health Corner

doctor's corner

How Long Do You Want To Live? It is interesting the way many of us unenthusiastically commit time and resources to the things that are necessary for us to enjoy long life and good health. The secrets of long life and health are not hidden. Research into the lives of those who have lived really long has taught scientists what things we need to do in order to have long healthy lives. The findings are that those who adopt a healthy lifestyle tend to be healthier, appear younger and live longer. The components of this healthy lifestyle are:

u sound nutrition The following ranges of BMI and the u keeping weight under control corresponding medical or health interpre- u regular physical activity tations are shown below. u regular and adequate sleep u avoidance of tobacco and u Emaciated= BMI <15 avoidance (or moderation) of u Underweight= BMI <19 alcohol intake u Average =19-25 u Overweight=25-27 Many of us are aware of these things u Overweight and at risk= 27-30 and really do want to live long, but it ap- u Obese=30-40 Medical Superintendent, Accra Hospital, pears that we are not prepared to do those u Morbidly obese= 40+ VRA Health Services Ltd., Dr. Emmanuel Sowah things that would help us achieve that. We still devote time to those things that are The absolute weight of a person does intensity aerobic activity done three to six rather harmful to our health and longevity. not matter as much as the proportion of days a week will maximize calorie burning. body fat when compared to lean body tis- Low intensity aerobic exercise done for a Sound nutrition sue. longer duration is safer for unfit obese in- Generally sound nutrition is based on a dividuals. Strength-training is important to diet of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables Regular physical activity build hard and firm muscles which being and plenty of whole grains that include fat- The minimum exercise recommenda- metabolically active tissues aid in fat-burn- free and low-fat milk products, legumes tion (to keep one healthy but not fit) for ing even at rest. (beans), skinless poultry, lean meats and health benefits is 30 minutes worth of It is also important, especially for those fish, (particularly fatty fish at least twice a moderate-intensity exercise every day di- who are too busy to find the time to exer- week) and which is low in processed car- visible into three 10-minute sessions. Ex- cise to add more physical activity to their bohydrate, sugar, saturated fat, cholesterol, amples are walking, climbing stairs, gar- daily routine in the following ways: salt and sodium. Examples of fatty fish are dening, cycling, and dancing. salmon, mackerel and herrings. For "recreational" fitness (in other u Dance anytime the opportunity arises words, someone who wants to be fit to u Whenever possible walk to people you Keeping weight under control play their favorite sport, keep up with the need to talk to instead of phoning them. To determine whether as an individual demands of work, maintain their normal u Take the stairs to your office. Or take the you are underweight, of normal weight or weight, and delay the effects of aging) we stairs as far as you feel comfortable, and overweight, a measure referred to as the need a minimum of three days a week of then take the elevator. Body Mass Index (BMI) is used. The BMI is moderate to high intensity aerobic activity u A number of times during the week park obtained by dividing the weight in kilos by done for 30 to 60 minutes to improve car- as far away as possible from your destina- the square of the height in metres. That is; diovascular fitness (also known as aerobic tion or get down at a stop or two from your BMI= Wt. in kg/(Ht. in m) 2 capacity or stamina) in addition to muscle- destination when you use public transport This implies that it is not just the weight strengthening exercises which will make and walk the rest of the way. of the person that matters but also the bones, muscles, and joints stronger. height. The taller you are the more weight For those who desire to lose weight Regular and adequate sleep you are ‘allowed’ and vice-versa. thirty to sixty minutes of moderate-to-high Sleep is beneficial in a number of ways.

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

Keeps the Heart Healthy: Lack of This is due to a poor regulation of the hor- allowed in a day can be calculated by di- sleep has been associated with worsening mones ghrelin and leptin, which are im- viding 3000 by the percentage alcohol by of blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes portant for the regulation of appetite. Ad- volume. So for an average beer which is 5% and depression. Your heart will be healthi- ditionally, cortisol levels increase and also alcohol by volume, an adult male is allowed er if you get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep contribute to weight gain which is charac- 3000/5= 600mls in a day. One beer bottle each night. terized by accumulation of abdominal fat. is 600mls, a soft drink like Fanta is 300mls May Prevent Cancer: People working Naps are beneficial: A study of 24,000 and a Kalyppo box is about 250mls. the late shift have a higher risk for breast Greek adults showed that people who and colon cancer. Researchers believe this napped several times a week had a lower link is caused by differing levels of mela- risk of dying from heart disease. People tonin in people who are exposed to light who nap at work have much lower levels at night. of stress. Light exposure reduces the level of Helps the body make repairs: During melatonin, a hormone that both makes us sleep the body performs repair of damaged sleepy and is thought to protect against tissues and cells, allowing for a decreased cancer. Melatonin appears to suppress the amount of wrinkles and contributing to a growth of tumors. Be sure that your bed- refreshed look. room is dark to help your body produce the melatonin it needs. Avoidance or moderation in Al- Reduces Stress: When the body is cohol sleep-deficient, it goes into a state of stress The strength of an alcoholic drink de- which causes an increase in blood pres- pends upon how much pure alcohol, or eth- sure. This increases your risk for heart anol, it contains. Cans or bottles will show attacks and strokes and raises the level the strength as the percentage alcohol by of inflammation in the body. This inflam- volume (%ABV.). mation creates more risk for heart-related A unit of alcohol is 10ml or 8grams of conditions, cancer and diabetes in addition pure alcohol. to possibly contributing to the deteriora- Moderate consumption of alcohol for tion of the body as one ages. an adult male is represented by 21 units Adequate sleep may help in weight per week= 210ml of pure alcohol= 30ml loss: Researchers have found that people per day, which must be taken with meals. who sleep less than seven hours per night Females are allowed less. are more likely to be overweight or obese. How much of a particular drink one is

Mrs Adina Quarshie Urges Staff To Regularly Update Beneficiary Nomination Forms John Chobbah — Thermal Generation Department, Tema The Accra Tema Human Resources real dependants/beneficiaries. She stated: Manager, Mrs. Adina Quarshie has urged “Staff are required to constantly update members of staff to constantly update their their records to avoid the instance where Beneficiary Nomination Forms to enhance their dependants do not get their benefits in record management efficiency. the event of the staff passing on.” The deceased include; Sampson Alhas- She made the remark at the Tema Addressing staff, Plant Manager of san , Senior Technician Engineer of Station Thermal Power Complex (TTPC) meeting TTPC, Ing. Edward Obeng-Kenzo also 1 Control Room, Richard Morttey, Senior room where she attended memorial service entreated them to take the Annual Medi- Technician Engineer of Station 3 Services for three members of staff who died during cal Examination instituted by the Authority Section; and Benjamin Semaha, Tema the course of the year. According to her, the seriously and endeavor to undertake regu- Branch Chairman of the Local Union and rationale behind updating the Beneficiary lar exercises. This, he said was to ensure a Maintenance Mechanic of Station 2 Me- Forms was to ensure that entitlements of the body effectively accommodated the in- chanical Section. deceased staff are handed over to the creasing domestic and work related stress.

[email protected] / www.vra.com | 23 OUR VALUES Our Mission: The Volta River Authority exists ☼ Accountability to Power Economies & Raise ☼ Commitment ☼ Trust the living standards of the ☼ Integrity people of Ghana & West Africa ☼ Teamwork

VRA Code of Ethics 2.0 SCOPE AND PURPOSE as well as live the corporate core values at 4.0 STATEMENT OF THE AUTHORITY'S The objective of the Code is to promote all times. Employees should therefore avoid CORE CORPORATE VALUES good governance principles and encourage attitudes, acts and behaviours which are not The Authority's core values are: a high standard of ethical behaviour among in the interest of the Authority. Accountability: employees of the Authority in their dealings o Being answerable to stakeholders of VRA. — MISSION with each other and with the Authority's exter- o Conducting business in a financially nal stakeholders. The Volta River Authority exists to power responsible manner. economies and raise the living standards of The 1992 Constitution of the Republic of o Empowering employees and holding them Ghana obliges public officers to avoid unethi- the people of Ghana and West Africa. We accountable for results. supply reliable electricity in a safe manner, to cal behavior or conduct, such as conflict of Commitment: add financial, economic and social values to interest, illicit enrichment, abuse of discretion o Goal and action-orientation. our operations and assets, to satisfy custom- and other improper conduct. o Taking leadership initiative. ers and meet stakeholders' expectations. In conformity with the tenets of the con- o Building a culture of execution. stitution, this Code of Ethics forms part of — VISION Trust: a continuing effort to develop systems and Setting the Standard for Public Sector o Gaining confidence of all stakeholders e.g. strategies to promote integrity, probity and Excellence in Africa. employees, lenders etc. accountability, dedicated and faithful service Integrity: to the Authority and the nation as a whole, u Leadership in performance, community o Commitment to the principle of honesty, as well as building a sustainable capacity to and industry. consistency and fairness in all dealings. combat corruption and other acts of miscon- u Planning well, making proactive and sound Teamwork: duct. business decisions. o Building and working in teams to achieve u Anticipating, shaping and effectively re- results. 3.0 VISION AND sponding to relevant external forces and o Respect for views/opinions of colleagues. MISSION STATEMENT events. o Providing mutual support for each other. All employees are expected to work and u Becoming a leading benchmarked util- contribute to the achievement of the Corpo- ity operating within the Baldrige Excellence To be Continued. rate Mission, Vision and Strategic Objectives Framework.

IN THE NEXT ISSUE: Please send your concerns, questions, congratulatory messages, issues, worries, suggestions, etc., to [email protected] Inauguration of KTPS 2016 APUA Meetings For further information/enquiries, contact VRA Diversifies into Coal Generation Corporate Communications Unit, Produced BlueOak by Concept VRA Staff Housing Loan Scheme Corporate Office. Tel: +233 302 664941-9 Ext. 252, 236 & 453 — What you Need to know about PLC 724252/413/309/453. Also visit www.vra.com