Ghana Cannot Pursue World-Class Nuclear Power With Poor Maintenance Culture Ing. Justice Ohene-Akoto

Executive Director of the Africa Sustainable Energy Centre (ASEC), Ing. Justice Ohene-Akoto, has warned that Ghana’s ambition to operate a world-class nuclear power facility could be undermined by its poor maintenance culture.

He stressed that the country must demonstrate a strong commitment to equipment maintenance, engineering discipline and operational safety if it intends to successfully develop and manage a nuclear power plant.

According to the energy expert, Ghana cannot aspire to operate a facility that meets international nuclear standards while continuing to tolerate a maintenance culture characterised by neglect, delayed repairs and inadequate attention to critical infrastructure.

His comments highlight concerns about the country’s preparedness to manage highly sophisticated energy infrastructure, where even minor technical failures or negligence could have serious consequences.

Ohene-Akoto’s warning comes amid Ghana’s ongoing efforts to introduce nuclear energy into its electricity generation mix as part of a broader strategy to strengthen energy security and diversify power sources.

Ghana’s nuclear programme requires significant investment in technical expertise, institutional capacity, regulatory oversight and infrastructure development. The Nuclear Regulatory Authority and other relevant institutions are already undertaking preparatory activities to establish the necessary framework for the programme.&l

The ASEC Executive Director’s concerns also reflect wider discussions about maintenance challenges in Ghana’s energy sector, particularly following infrastructure failures such as the Akosombo Substation fire in 2026.

ASEC has previously advocated a shift from reactive maintenance to predictive maintenance using modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, thermal imaging and equipment-monitoring systems.

Ohene-Akoto’s position reinforces the need for Ghana to develop a disciplined maintenance culture, strengthen technical institutions and prioritise safety as it pursues its nuclear energy ambitions.

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