On February 2, 2026, Minister of Energy Cyril Arnold Grant formally introduced and welcomed George Taylor as the new Director General of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), highlighting the importance of strong leadership as the utility prepares for major reform and an impending concession process.
Minister Grant, speaking at the handover ceremony, stated that the appointment comes at an important time for EDSA. He praised Taylor’s credentials and professional background, mentioning that the Ministry thoroughly reviewed his record and was impressed with what it discovered. “George is here on the crest of a highly respected background,” the minister said, adding that Taylor’s experience as a banker, during which he reportedly oversaw notable transformations in the institutions he led, qualifies him to lead EDSA through a critical transition.
Minister Grant emphasised the utility’s immediate challenges, including staffing issues and financial constraints. He stated that these issues must be addressed decisively in order to ensure the organisation’s long-term viability ahead of concessions, which are expected in a few months. “EDSA is one of the biggest companies in the country in terms of turnover, and we cannot let it roll in the dust or dark without gaining proper control, increasing revenue, and improving the lives of its employees,” he said, emphasising the Ministry’s expectation that new leadership will seize the opportunity to speed up reforms.
The minister also emphasised the rigorous hiring processes that resulted in Taylor’s selection, pointing out that the new appointment comes after a period of examination and screening. With six Directors General since 2018, he noted that EDSA has seen frequent changes at the top, highlighting the significance of steady, ongoing leadership moving forward.
Board Chairman Ing. Andrew Kailie echoed the Ministry’s endorsement, stating that the board conducted a thorough interview process and determined Taylor to be qualified for the position. Kailie assured the new Director General of the Board’s support while emphasising the enormity and complexity of the task ahead.
Tesman Egbe, the outgoing Acting Director General, used the occasion to thank stakeholders for their support during his tenure and highlight achievements made under his leadership. He acknowledged, however, that the utility still has a lot of work to do, but expressed confidence in a smooth transition.
Upon taking up his new position, George Taylor acknowledged the difficult state of affairs at EDSA, describing the utility’s situation as “not too rosy.” He promised to work hard to guide the organisation through the reform process and to manage the upcoming concession period responsibly. Taylor emphasised that collaboration and mutual respect among stakeholders are essential ingredients for successful change.
Observers emphasised the larger context in which this leadership transition is taking place: the energy sector’s reform agenda is inextricably linked to national development priorities, such as the Feed Salone initiative. With reforms ongoing across the sector, the Ministry, the Board, and the new Director General have all expressed a shared commitment to improving EDSA’s performance and delivering better outcomes for customers and employees alike.
