The Ghana Electrical Contractors Association (GECA) has raised serious concerns about the growing number of non-functioning streetlights across the country, particularly the recent disappearance of streetlights on the Accra-Tema Motorway. In a statement dated October 7, 2024, GECA emphasized that the lack of functioning streetlights poses major risks to public safety, national security, and economic growth, urging immediate and lasting solutions.
GECA stated that plunging major highways, residential areas, and commercial centers into darkness increases crime and accidents, calling for urgent action. The association proposed a thorough nationwide assessment of streetlight infrastructure, replacing damaged or stolen streetlights, and improving security surveillance. Collaboration with law enforcement to tackle crime related to public infrastructure was also recommended.
In the long term, GECA suggested investing in modern smart streetlight technology, implementing Public-Private Partnerships for managing public lighting, and fully enacting the Street Lighting in Ghana-Policy Framework 2011. GECA President Awal Sakib Mohammed reiterated the association’s readiness to support the government in solving the issue, urging stakeholders to unite in restoring safe and well-lit public spaces.