Economist Professor Patrick Asuming has emphasized that without tackling the challenges in Ghana’s energy sector, significant government initiatives like industrialization and the proposed 24-hour economy are unlikely to thrive.
His comments come in light of the recent approval of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which imposes a GHS1 tax on fuel. According to the government, this levy aims to generate revenue to settle debts in the energy sector and ensure a stable electricity supply.
During an appearance on The Big Issue with Selorm Adonoo on Channel One TV on Saturday, June 7, Prof. Asuming highlighted that the stability of the power sector is crucial for the nation’s economic transformation.
“Everyone understands that if we don’t address the issues in the energy sector, we won’t make any progress. We can have all the ambitious plans, discussions about industrialization, and a 24-hour economy. Whatever we plan, we must first resolve the energy sector issues,” he remarked.
While he supports the necessity of the levy, Prof. Asuming raised concerns regarding its timing and the government’s clarity about its implications.
“My main concern is the timing and the way it has been communicated. The uncertainty about whether it applies only to fuel or not is unhelpful,” he noted.
Source: HotFmOnline.com
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