An in-depth investigation into the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has uncovered a shocking revelation – more than 1,300 containers that were supposed to be cleared at the Tema Port are missing. According to reports by Graphic Online, the committee, chaired by Professor Innocent Senyo Acquah, found a significant discrepancy in the number of containers claimed by ECG and the actual number found during an independent audit.
The investigation revealed that ECG reported having 2,491 uncleared containers, including cables and other equipment. However, the audit at the port only identified 1,134 containers, leaving a staggering 1,347 containers unaccounted for. This discrepancy raised concerns about the handling of ECG’s procurement and logistics processes.
Professor Acquah presented the findings to the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, highlighting the discontinuation of a dedicated fund for clearing containers due to financial constraints. He also disclosed that ECG had awarded contracts to two firms to clear the containers, with one firm being pre-financed by ECG. However, one of the companies lacked the necessary license to carry out the contract, raising suspicions of procurement breaches.
Moreover, the investigation uncovered that ECG’s procurement directorate had been merged with its Housing and Estate unit, and the Director of Procurement had no prior experience in procurement or membership in any professional procurement body. These findings painted a troubling picture of mismanagement and lack of oversight within ECG’s procurement processes.
In response to the alarming revelations, Minister Jinapor pledged to launch a thorough investigation with the assistance of the Attorney-General and the police. He expressed determination to hold those responsible for the missing containers or their monetary value accountable.
The Minister also announced plans to decouple the procurement unit at ECG within a week and implement reforms to enhance transparency and accountability in the company’s procurement practices. He emphasized the need for swift action to address the systemic issues that led to the disappearance of the containers.
The investigation was initiated following Minister Jinapor’s visit to the port in January 2025, where the uncleared containers were discovered. A five-member committee was formed to assess ECG’s procurement practices, evaluate the cost implications of the missing containers, and determine liabilities estimated at GH₵1.5 billion.
The findings of the investigation have underscored the urgent need for systemic reforms and increased oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future. Minister Jinapor’s commitment to holding individuals accountable and implementing corrective measures signals a step towards restoring trust and integrity in ECG’s operations.
