Kumasi Citizens Raise Alarm Over Deficient Street Lighting Ahead of Christmas

Introduction

As the festive season approaches, the vibrant city of Kumasi is facing a critical infrastructure challenge that threatens public safety and economic activity. Residents across the Greater Kumasi Metropolitan Area are expressing deep concern regarding the widespread failure of street lighting systems. With Christmas just around the corner, the lack of illumination on major roads and internal streets has become more than an inconvenience; it is a source of fear. This article explores the growing anxiety among citizens, the specific areas affected, the impact on local businesses and crime rates, and the official response from the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) aimed at resolving the issue before the holidays.

Key Points

Background

Kumasi, known as the “Garden City” and the commercial heartbeat of the Ashanti Region, relies heavily on functional public infrastructure to support its bustling population. Street lighting is a fundamental component of urban safety, particularly in developing cities where night-time security can be precarious. Historically, the maintenance of streetlights has been a joint responsibility between the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), often involving private contractors for installation and repairs.

However, in recent months, a significant deterioration has been observed. The “patch-up” maintenance strategy, where isolated lights are fixed, has failed to keep pace with the rate of failure and vandalism. This systemic breakdown has led to a situation where entire stretches of road remain pitch dark after sundown. The timing is critical; the period leading up to Christmas is typically characterized by high commercial activity, increased movement of goods and people, and extended working hours for traders. The current state of disrepair puts a vulnerable population at risk during their most economically active season.

Analysis

The current crisis in Kumasi is not merely an infrastructure failure; it is a complex issue intertwining public safety, economic stability, and urban governance.

The Safety and Security Vacuum

The absence of light fundamentally alters the risk profile of a neighborhood. Criminological theory suggests that “opportunity makes the thief,” and darkness provides the necessary cover for opportunistic crimes. In Kumasi, this has manifested in a sharp increase in street robberies. Commuters, particularly those using trotros (public minibuses) or walking home from work, are easy targets. The psychological impact is profound; the fear of crime restricts movement and erodes the sense of community security.

Economic Consequences

For the local economy, the impact is immediate and quantifiable. Small business owners—such as the tyre technician and seamstress mentioned in local reports—are forced to truncate their operating hours. In the retail sector, the evening rush is often the most profitable window during the festive season. Closing shop at 5 p.m. instead of 9 p.m. represents a significant loss of income. Furthermore, the lack of lighting discourages night-time commerce, potentially stalling the economic momentum that small businesses desperately need to recover from year-long challenges.

Infrastructure Vulnerabilities

The specific mention of “wet” lighting projects suggests that cable theft is a major underlying issue. Criminals often strip copper wiring from poles, rendering the system useless even if the bulbs are functional. This creates a cycle of repair and theft that drains municipal resources. The shift toward solar-powered lighting is a strategic response to this, as solar setups often utilize different cabling systems and are decentralized, making them harder to sabotage systematically.

Practical Advice

For residents navigating Kumasi during this period of lighting instability, safety must be the priority. Here are actionable steps to take:

For Commuters and Pedestrians

• Plan Your Route: Stick to main roads that may have partial lighting or higher traffic volume, even if it takes longer. Avoid unlit shortcuts and internal streets.
• Travel in Groups: There is safety in numbers. Avoid walking alone late at night.
• Stay Visible: If walking, wear reflective clothing or use a flashlight. Ensure drivers can see you.
• Secure Belongings: Keep bags close to your body and avoid using mobile phones openly in dark areas.

For Business Owners

• Invest in Private Security: If operating late, consider hiring private security or installing motion-sensor lights around your premises.
• Community Watch: Organize with other local business owners to keep an eye on the street and report suspicious activity immediately.
• Adjust Hours Cautiously: While closing early protects inventory, consider offering delivery services or early-bird specials to maintain revenue without compromising safety.

Reporting and Civic Engagement

Citizens play a vital role in restoration efforts. The KMA has requested that residents report malfunctioning lights. This can usually be done via:

• The official KMA complaint desk or hotline.
• Social media channels of the Assembly.
• Direct communication with local assembly members.

Providing specific locations (e.g., “The third pole after Santasi Roundabout”) helps contractors target repairs efficiently.

FAQ

Conclusion

The situation in Kumasi highlights the critical link between urban infrastructure and public safety. While the darkness has cast a shadow over the upcoming Christmas season, sparking valid fears of crime and economic loss, there is a clear path forward. The interventions by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and the Ministry of Energy, particularly the shift toward solar technology, represent a sustainable long-term solution. However, the success of these initiatives relies on a triad of efforts: swift government action, community vigilance against vandalism, and active reporting by citizens. By working together, Kumasi can restore its lights and ensure a safer, brighter festive season for all.