By Dominic Hlordzi
The Ghana Electrical Contractors Association, GECA is deeply concerned about the alarming state of streetlights in Ghana.
It is disappointing that the streetlights on the Accra-Tema Motorway have all disappeared.
A statement signed by the President of GECA Awal Sakib Mohammed said the disturbing situation calls for immediate attention from key stakeholders including the Ministry of Energy, ECG, Energy Commission, Ministry of Roads and Highways and the Local Government Authorities.
The statement said the lack of functioning streetlights poses significant risks to public safety, national security and economic development.
It said it is unacceptable that major highways, residential areas, commercial centres are in darkness facilitating crime and accidents.
GECA is requesting the following actions immediately:
- Conduct thorough assessment of streetlights infrastructure nationwide
- Replace stolen or damaged lights with energy-efficient and durable alternatives
- Enhance security measures to prevent theft and vandalism
- Establish regular maintenance schedules
- Collaborate with the law enforcement agencies to address crime related to streetlights.
In the long term, GECA suggested investment in modern smart streetlight technology, development of public-private partnerships for streetlights management, strengthen institutional frameworks for maintenance and oversight, promote community engagement and ownership of the streetlights and ensure full implementation of street lighting in Ghana policy framework 2011.
GECA pledges to offer its support to government in efforts to holistically address the challenges relating to streetlights in the country.