Participants at the launch of the awards
This year’s (2024) edition of the Ghana Energy Awards (GEA) is set to highlight the contributions of various local content initiatives towards the growth of the sector.
The decision was announced by organisers during the 8th edition media launch in Accra.
Nominations have since been opened until 30th August, 2024.
Organised by the Energy Media Group (EMG) and endorsed by the Ministry of Energy and the World Energy Council, Ghana, the awards ceremony has since its inception in 2017 recognised the pioneering efforts of stakeholders in the industry towards the growth of the national economy.
Deputy Minister of Energy, John Kobina Abbam Aboah Sanie, said by recognising and celebrating the remarkable contributions of companies, institutions, and individuals, the Awards inspire innovation and drive industry players to achieve global standards.
“The impact of these awards extends far beyond mere recognition; they foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence, aligning the sector’s growth with the broader vision of national development,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer of the EMG and Event Director of the GEA, Henry Teinor, noted that energy is the lifeblood of the country’s economy.
For that reason, the organisers’ vision is to “keep this lifeblood pumping by celebrating excellence and innovation.”
Describing the theme, “The Role of Local Content in Building the Energy Sector” as a strong call for action, Chairman of the awarding panel, Lawyer Kwame Jantuah, declared that local participation in every facet of our energy sector is crucial.
“It fuels economic growth, empowers our workforce, and ensures a thriving energy future built by Ghanaian hands,” he said and emphasised the awards’ commitment to highlighting the achievements of Ghanaian minds.
He said the country has embarked on a transformative journey to change the energy sector by drawing up and implementing robust local content policies and initiatives.
The government is further streamlining regulations to create a more supportive environment for Ghanaian businesses to thrive and compete effectively.
“These policies collectively aim to build local capacity, enhance the skills of the Ghanaian workforce, and ensure that the country’s energy resources contribute more significantly to its economic development by guaranteeing that a substantial portion of energy sector activities are conducted by Ghanaians,” he noted.
The 2024 Ghana Energy Awards features 25 competitive categories and four non-competitive categories.
Newer categories introduced in line with the theme include the Local Content Impact Leadership Award, Local Content Torchbearer Excellence Award, Local Content Legacy Achievement Award, Local Content Partnership of the Year, and the Outstanding Local Content Initiative of the Year.
By Charles Takyi Boadu