Small Businesses and Residents Struggle with Power Fluctuations in Achimota and Tantra Hills

Introduction

Power outages and electrical fluctuations have become a growing crisis for small businesses and residents in parts of Accra, particularly in Achimota, Tantra Hills, and Mile 7. Over recent days, these communities have faced chronic electricity disruptions that have severely impacted daily life and economic activities. This article explores the challenges faced by local entrepreneurs and households, the broader implications for Ghana’s small business sector, and what can be done to address this ongoing issue.

Key Points

Background

Ghana has long grappled with electricity supply challenges, with frequent power outages—often referred to locally as “dumsor”—affecting both urban and rural areas. While the government and utility providers have made efforts to improve the situation, many communities still experience unreliable power. Small businesses, which form the backbone of Ghana’s economy, are particularly vulnerable because they depend heavily on a consistent electricity supply to operate machinery, preserve goods, and serve customers.

In areas like Achimota and Tantra Hills, recent weeks have seen a sharp increase in power fluctuations. These disruptions have not only interrupted business operations but also damaged expensive equipment and led to substantial financial losses for both entrepreneurs and residents.

Analysis

Impact on Small Businesses

For small business owners, electricity is more than just a utility—it’s the lifeline of their operations. Rahinatu Tahiru, who manages a washing bay in Tantra Hills, explains that her business has been paralyzed by the erratic power supply. “Three days ago, the power went off here, and whenever that happens, we are unable to work,” she said. The frequent outages have not only halted productivity but also caused damage to essential machinery, further straining her resources.

Similarly, Prince Osei, a barber shop owner in the area, reports that chronic outages have drastically reduced his daily earnings. “When the light goes off in the morning, it comes around 5:00 pm. By that time, all the customers are gone,” he explained. This pattern has persisted for over a week, leaving him with minimal income and mounting frustration.

Impact on Residents

The effects of power instability extend beyond businesses to the daily lives of residents. Many have been forced to switch off electrical appliances to prevent damage, only to find that their food supplies have already spoiled. One resident shared, “When I realised the power was flickering, I decided to switch off my fridge and TV set, but the items in the fridge had already spoiled. For three days now, our meat, chicken and goat have all gone bad, and it has really cost us.”

These losses are not just inconvenient—they represent a significant financial burden for families already struggling to make ends meet.

Broader Economic Implications

Ghana’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are vital to the country’s economic growth, providing employment and driving innovation. However, unreliable electricity supply undermines their potential, forcing many to operate below capacity or even close down temporarily. This not only affects individual business owners but also has ripple effects throughout the local economy, reducing tax revenues and limiting job creation.

Practical Advice

For Business Owners

1. **Invest in Backup Power**: Consider purchasing generators or solar power systems to keep your business running during outages.
2. **Protect Equipment**: Use surge protectors to safeguard sensitive machinery from power fluctuations.
3. **Diversify Income Streams**: Explore alternative revenue sources that are less dependent on electricity, such as mobile services or offline sales.

For Residents

1. **Preserve Food**: Use coolers with ice packs to keep perishable items fresh during outages.
2. **Unplug Appliances**: Disconnect sensitive electronics during power fluctuations to prevent damage.
3. **Stay Informed**: Monitor local news and utility announcements for updates on power restoration efforts.

For Policymakers

1. **Improve Infrastructure**: Invest in modernizing the national grid to reduce outages and improve reliability.
2. **Support SMEs**: Provide subsidies or low-interest loans for businesses to acquire backup power solutions.
3. **Engage Communities**: Establish communication channels to keep residents informed about planned maintenance and restoration efforts.

FAQ

Conclusion

The ongoing power fluctuations in Achimota, Tantra Hills, and surrounding areas are more than just an inconvenience—they represent a significant threat to the livelihoods of small business owners and the well-being of residents. As Ghana continues to develop, ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply must be a top priority. By investing in infrastructure, supporting vulnerable businesses, and engaging with affected communities, the country can build a more resilient and prosperous future for all.