Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo: A visionary leader shaping future of Ghana’s power sector

In the world of energy, where precision, foresight, and innovation are paramount, Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo stands out as a beacon of leadership. With more than 25 years of experience in the power sector, his career trajectory exemplifies the power of dedication, technical excellence, and strategic leadership. As the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Volta River Authority (VRA), Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has not only played a key role in shaping the organization’s growth but has also positioned it to meet the energy demands of Ghana’s future.

A solid foundation built on education and experience

Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s academic journey began at the prestigious Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This technical foundation was further strengthened when he pursued a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). His commitment to continuous learning and professional development is evident, having honed both his engineering expertise and his managerial acumen to become a well-rounded leader.

In addition to his academic qualifications, Ing. Obeng-Kenzo is a respected member of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE), where his contributions to the sector have been widely acknowledged.

A leader who drives results

Throughout his career at VRA, Ing. Obeng-Kenzo has held several key positions, each marked by his ability to drive operational excellence and efficiency. He served as Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Engineering and Operations before ascending to the role of Acting CEO. His strategic insight and leadership have played a pivotal role in VRA’s success, driving initiatives that have enhanced the Authority’s operational performance across its thermal and hydro generation assets.

His tenure as Director of the Thermal Generation Strategic Business Unit (SBU) and Plant Manager of the Tema Thermal Power Complex (TTPC) was marked by significant improvements in performance. Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s leadership at the Akosombo Generating Station (AGS) further solidified his reputation as a leader committed to enhancing the output of VRA’s assets, contributing to the overall operational success of the organization.

Innovation and strategic vision

A hallmark of Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s leadership is his ability to turn challenges into opportunities. He has spearheaded some of the most critical projects in Ghana’s energy sector, with a focus on improving power generation and distribution to underserved regions. The Kaleo Solar Power Plant and the Anwomaso Thermal Power Station are among his notable contributions—projects that are central to expanding electricity access to Ghana’s middle and northern regions.

Through these projects, he has not only demonstrated technical proficiency but also showcased his ability to collaborate across functions, bringing together engineers, project managers, and stakeholders to deliver impactful results. These efforts have significantly strengthened VRA’s position as a leading entity in Ghana’s power sector.

A legacy of excellence

Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s journey began with a focus on technical excellence. Early in his career, his skills as a Mechanical/Shift Charge Engineer at the Takoradi Thermal Power Station (TTPS) earned him distinction. His subsequent roles, including Officer-In-Charge of the Osagyefo Power Barge and Project Manager for Performance Enhancement Projects at TTPS, were marked by an unwavering commitment to optimizing operations and enhancing the station’s performance.

His strategic thinking, combined with a natural ability to build collaborative teams, has made him a leader who is not only respected for his technical skills but also admired for his leadership style, which fosters innovation, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.

A visionary with a community focus

Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s journey is also deeply rooted in his heritage. Hailing from Shama in the Western Region of Ghana, he embodies the values of hard work and service to the community. His connection to his roots remains strong, and he is a proud alumnus of Saint John’s School (Saints), an institution that has shaped his character and leadership philosophy.

Under his leadership, VRA is poised to remain a dominant force in Ghana’s energy sector, driving the country’s energy transition while maintaining a commitment to sustainable growth and innovation. As Ing. Obeng-Kenzo continues to lead, his legacy will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for future generations of engineers, leaders, and innovators in the power sector.

In the evolving landscape of Ghana’s power sector, Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo stands as a visionary who continues to shape the future of energy in the country. His journey is one of relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and leadership—qualities that have propelled him to the forefront of Ghana’s energy industry.