By Emmanuel Gamson
Takoradi, Feb. 17, GNA – The Western Nzema Youth League (WNYL), a youth group, says the appointment of Dr Robert Lartey as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), of the Ghana National Gas Company Limited (GNGCL), will usher in a new era of growth and innovation in the gas industry.
Dr Patrick Ekye Kwesie, Leader of the WNYL, who spoke to the Ghana News Agency in an interview, said the new CEO would bring a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as the head of the Gas Processing Plants Integrity at the Company.
According to him, Dr Lartey’s extensive background in engineering and management within the gas sector positioned him as a capable leader who would understand the intricacies of gas processing and distribution.
“The youth of Western Nzema recognise that Dr Lartey’s technical expertise and hands-on experience will be instrumental in addressing the challenges facing Ghana Gas, particularly in enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the safety and integrity of gas facilities,” he stated.
Dr Kwesie noted that the support from the WNYL was not merely a reflection of Dr Lartey’s qualifications, but also underscored a broader desire for local representation in leadership positions within the energy sector.
The WNYL Leader said: “The region has long been a significant contributor to Ghana’s energy resources, yet the local population has often felt disconnected from the decision-making processes that affect their livelihoods.
“By appointing a leader from the region, the government has taken a step towards inclusivity, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the youth.”
Dr Kwesie expressed optimism that the new CEO’s appointment would lead to increased job opportunities and skills development within the region, saying “As Ghana Gas continues to expand its operations, there is a pressing need for a skilled workforce to support these initiatives.”
On their expectations, he stated that Dr Lartey should prioritise local hiring and training programmes, empowering the youth and equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in the energy sector.
“I believe he should focus on local talent development which aligns with the government’s broader agenda of promoting local content and participation in the oil and gas industry,” he added.
Aside from the job creation, Dr Kwesie said there was the need for the new Ghana Gas CEO to champion initiatives that promoted environmental sustainability and community engagement.
He said: “The gas industry, while vital for economic growth, poses environmental challenges that must be addressed, and so we are urging him to implement policies that prioritise environmental protection and community welfare, ensuring that the benefits of gas production are shared equitably among local residents.”
He noted that as a youth group, they were ready to partner with Ghana Gas on various initiatives through dialogue to contribute ideas that could help shape the future of the gas sector in Ghana.
Dr Kwesie said: “Our proactive stance reflects a growing awareness among the youth of our role as stakeholders in the energy landscape, and our commitment to ensuring that the region’s resources are harnessed for the greater good.”
GNA