Ghana's efforts at energy self-sufficiency took a significant step towards reality with a symbolic sod-cutting ceremony by President J. A. Kufuor at Bui in the Brong Ahafo Region on 24th August 2007.

The function also gave practical expression to 100 years of planning and speculations over a project intended to provide 400 megawatts of hydro-electric power and employment to about 2900 Ghanaians.

Apart from generating electric power, the site is also to be developed into the Bui City, as well as irrigation, fisheries and eco-tourism facilities.

The project, being funded by the Ghanaian government with a loan facility of $562 million from the People's Republic of China and internal resources of $60 million, is in fulfillment of the campaign promise made by President of the campaign promise made by President Kufuor to the people of Brong Ahafo Region in 2000 to construct the Bui Dam, which had remained on the drawing board since the 1920s.

H.E. Yu Wenzhe, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, said the project was a lasting solution to the challenges of providing long-term sustainable sources of energy to meet the needs of Ghana's development. He believed that the Bui Hydro-power Project would serve as a new landmark of the China-Ghana friendship.

The Group President of the Sino-hydro Corporation, the Chinese firm executing the projecting, Mr. Fan Jixiang, pledged to do quality work and provide value for money to Ghanaians.

Sources: Daily Graphic