VRA’s ATP1 Wins Big at 2025 NPMC & Project Management Excellence Awards
The Anwomaso Thermal Power Project of the Volta River Authority (VRA) has received the award for the Project of the year at the 2025 National Project management Conference (NPMC) and Project management Excellence Awards.
At an event held at Aqua Safari in Ada, the award was given in recognition of the Authority’s positive impact in the provision of electricity to the middle belt of the country following the establishment of the Anwomaso Thermal Power Plant. Completed in April 2024, the project was built to enhance the transmission line reliability and efficiency and limit the transportation payments on the West African Gas Pipeline Company reverse flow line.
The Anwomaso Thermal Power Project commenced its first phase in May 2023 with the relocation of the first six TM2500 units with a total generation capacity of 150MW and has hence been named the Anwomaso 1 Thermal Power Project.
The project which was solely funded by the VRA involves the decommissioning, dismantling and reassembly of ten (10) trailer-mounted aero-derivative gas turbine units (GE TM2500 Units), the related 161kV switchyard, as well as the Balance of Plant equipment, from Aboadze in the Western Region to Kumasi. The relocated equipment includes turbine and generator assemblies, air filter assembly, exhaust assembly, control room, batteries, switchyard equipment, various power and control cables among others.
Meanwhile, the Phase 2 is scheduled for completion at the end of 2025 with an extra 100MW added at the time of its completion.
The event organized by the Project Management Institute (PMI) Ghana Chapter was held under the theme “Innovating for Prosperity: How Project Management Will Shape Ghana’s Economic Future.”
This year’s conference brought together distinguished professionals, policymakers, and thought leaders in the field of project management to deliberate on the critical role of structured project delivery in Ghana’s socio-economic transformation.
In his address, delivered by Mr. Goosie Tanoh, Chairman of HML Marine, Power & Energy Limited, the President of the Republic, John Dramani Mahama praised the profession’s importance in shaping development and commended PMI Ghana’s efforts in advancing the national project management agenda.
Volta River Authority (VRA) also emerged 1st Runner-Up for PM Excellence Agriculture Project of the Year with its Kpong Head Aquatic Weed Project, 1st Runner-Up – PM Excellence State Organization Project of the Year Anwomaso Thermal Power Project while VRA’s project management office emerged 2nd Runner-Up for the PMO of the Year Award.
The awards reflect VRA’s commitment to powering economies and driving excellence with innovation and sustainability in the execution of complex infrastructure and environmental projects as well as its commitment to excellence in project delivery, environmental stewardship, and community impact.
Throughout the three-day conference, VRA’s presence was marked by insightful technical presentations delivered by seasoned professionals from across its departments.
Ing. Owusu Dwamena, Manager, Operations at Akosombo Generating Station, presented on “Enhancing the Safety and Security of Ghana’s Power Generating Stations.” His session highlighted VRA’s strategic USD 12.06 million security enhancement project for the Akosombo and Kpong dams. Prompted by the threat of extremist activities, the initiative involved a comprehensive deployment of cutting-edge surveillance, intrusion detection, and perimeter control systems. The project aligns with VRA’s vision of safeguarding national energy assets through resilient, tech-driven security solutions.
Mr. Ben A. Sackey, Director of the Environment & Sustainable Development Department, discussed the Kpong Aquatic Weed Management Project, emphasizing innovative, community-focused strategies such as the use of bio-digesters and sustainable composting. The initiative not only restores polluted water bodies but also fosters economic empowerment through carbon-neutral practices and local product innovation.
Ing. Samuel Baah Dadzie, Principal Engineer, Project Implementation Section of Technical Services Department (TSD), an experienced Construction and Project Management Professional, spoke on the “Smart Infrastructure Project”, with specific reference to the ultramodern Engineering Services Department (ESD) Building, showcasing VRA’s adoption of smart design, energy efficiency, and stakeholder-inclusive project development. His presentation offered insights into risk-based planning and infrastructure resilience, echoing best practices from global benchmarks.
Ms. Elizabeth Kisson, Principal Research Officer, closed VRA’s presentations with a powerful session on “Schistosomiasis Management in the Volta Basin”. Her focus on digital innovation and strategic partnerships underscored VRA’s mandate not just in power generation, but in holistic community health and lake area development.
Each of these speakers was honoured with certificates for their outstanding sessions accentuating the Authority’s reputation for thought leadership and sectoral influence. The 2025 NPMC was more than a platform for knowledge exchange—it was a celebration of progress, innovation, and national responsibility.
The Volta River Authority’s recognition in the sweep of awards reflects its unwavering commitment to excellence in project delivery, environmental stewardship, and community impact. As Ghana navigates economic and infrastructural challenges, VRA continues to position itself at the forefront of transformative, sustainable development through effective project management.
The Water Resources & Renewable Energy and Environment & Sustainable Development Directors of the Volta River Authority (VRA), Ing. Abdul Noor Wahab and Mr. Benjamin Arhin Sackey, have led a team from VRA to engage key stakeholders on the Authority's Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) at the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council in Koforidua. Present were the Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Municipal/District Chief Executives from potentially affected communities, NADMO Officials, Security Personnel among other key stakeholders.
The workshop aims at keeping communities informed about the operations of the Akosombo and Kpong hydroelectric dams and to ensure the safety of lives, property and economic activities in the event of potential emergencies such as collapse of the dam or controlled water releases.
It also seeks to raise awareness and educate stakeholders on sustainable environmental practices to safeguard the Volta Lake and ensure reliable power generation for economic growth.
In his address, the Director of Water Resources & Renewable Energy, Ing. Abdul Noor Wahab, highlighted that this workshop serves as a refresher on the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder during emergencies.
He noted that there are times when releasing water from the dam becomes necessary, which can have significant effects on surrounding communities and the environment. In such situations, it is vital for all stakeholders to fully understand their responsibilities and act promptly and effectively to protect lives and property.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, commended VRA for the initiative, emphasizing that the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) is vital for ensuring stakeholders are well-prepared for any emergency. She also encouraged all stakeholders to see the workshop as a reminder of their collective responsibility to safeguard the people and communities living along the Volta Lake.
Director, Environment & Sustainable Development, Mr. Benjamin Sackey, led the EMP discussion following a comprehensive presentation. He provided participants with the opportunity to ask questions and share their insights. Together with the VRA team, he addressed the concerns raised and offered clarifications to ensure a clear understanding of the issues discussed such as Reforestation, Alternative Livelihood, and Gorge protection programmes.
The Authority pledged to continue working with all stakeholders to ensure public safety and sustainable energy operations. The sensitization workshops continue at Kwahu South, Afram Plains South, Upper Manya Krobo, Asuogyaman, and Lower Manya Krobo Municipal/District Assemblies.
