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GhIE has opened its 53rd Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Takoradi, Western region. The Ghana Institute of Engineers event began on 28th March 2023, and brings together engineers, policymakers, industry experts, and other stakeholders in the engineering sector to discuss various issues affecting the profession and the country as a whole.
The conference, which has the theme “Engineering for Accelerated National Development: The Role of Local Content and Innovative Financing,” seeks to explore ways of promoting local content and innovative financing in engineering projects to support the country’s development agenda.
During the opening address, the Paramount Chief of Essikado Traditional Area, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, emphasized the importance of using local engineers and contractors to build roads and infrastructure in Ghana and the rest of Africa. He drew attention to the example of Kasajan, a project launched during the regime of Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, which employed a team of local engineers to build roads, bridges, and other infrastructure.
Nana Kobina Nketsia V argued that using local engineers and contractors not only ensures that the expertise and resources stay within the country, but also promotes economic growth and development. He also urged the government to provide adequate funding and support to local engineers and contractors to help them carry out their work effectively.
Ing. Mrs. Carlien Bou-Chedid echoed Nana Kobina Nketsia V’s sentiments, stating that it was essential to recognize the capabilities of local engineers and contractors and promote their involvement in infrastructure development projects.
During his welcome address at the conference, Ing. Rev. Prof. Charles Anum Adams, the President of the GhIE, stressed the importance of encouraging the government and private sector to invest in the training and development of engineering practitioners, as well as creating a conducive environment for them to practice their profession without interference from unqualified individuals or political actors. He also extended a warm welcome to delegates from sister countries such as Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Kenya, Liberia, and particularly the President of West Africa Federation of Engineers (WAFEO), as well as other professional bodies from Ghana who attended the conference.
The conference will feature various technical sessions, panel discussions, and exhibitions, with topics ranging from sustainable engineering practices to the role of engineering in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
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Source: Omanghana.com/SP
