Former Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has stressed the need for stronger, truly independent energy regulators to safeguard Africa’s long-term energy prospects.
He delivered the call during the launch of Energy Regulation in Africa, a new publication co-authored by former PURC Executive Secretary Dr. Ishmael Ackah and Dr. Charly Gatete. The event, held at the British Council in Accra on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, brought together energy policymakers, academics, and industry players.
The book compiles perspectives from 71 contributors across 40 African countries, examining regulatory reforms, governance systems, investment climates, and the increasing necessity for independent oversight in both the power and petroleum sectors.
Speaking at the launch, Opoku Prempeh cautioned that Africa risks repeating costly mistakes if its regulatory institutions remain weak or vulnerable to political interference.
“We often call for independent regulators—or we let our regulators be independent. That is right, but independence is not the same as autonomy,” he said. “Autonomy suggests action without accountability. Independence is more demanding, and that includes fairness.”
He explained that a truly independent regulator “listens but is not influenced or controlled,” adding that such institutions must “respect government policy but not surrender their mandate.”
Opoku Prempeh noted that achieving genuine regulatory independence requires governments to provide clear mandates, secure and consistent financing, and unwavering adherence to due process. Regulators, he added, must recognize the far-reaching impact of their decisions on investment, consumer protection, and economic stability.
“Their authority must therefore be exercised with transparency, responsibility, and partnerships,” he said.
