Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has announced significant progress in her ambitious initiative to enhance street lighting within the capital city, Accra. Having pledged to improve illumination within her first 50 days in office, Ocloo declared that the project is currently 50% complete. This announcement, made during an interview on Eyewitness News on March 12, 2025, aims to reassure the public of her commitment to fulfilling the promise despite growing concerns regarding the feasibility of achieving such a substantial undertaking within the stipulated timeframe. The Minister assured listeners that a detailed press briefing will be held soon to provide a comprehensive update on the specific areas where streetlights have been installed, offering transparency and demonstrating the tangible progress achieved thus far.
Ocloo’s street lighting initiative is a crucial response to a pressing concern within Accra – the lack of adequate illumination in numerous areas, particularly at night. This deficiency not only compromises the safety and security of residents but also contributes to an environment conducive to criminal activities. Improved street lighting is expected to deter crime, enhance visibility for motorists and pedestrians, and contribute to a greater sense of security within the city. The Minister’s commitment to addressing this issue underscores her administration’s dedication to improving the quality of life for Accra’s residents and fostering a safer urban environment.
While acknowledging the challenges inherent in such a large-scale project, Ocloo expressed confidence in her team’s ability to complete the remaining 50% within the remaining timeframe. She highlighted ongoing efforts, citing the team’s current focus on areas surrounding the Jubilee House and several other streets within the capital. This commitment to active and continuous work demonstrates the Minister’s determination to meet her self-imposed deadline and deliver on her promise to the public. The initiative’s success will not only enhance the city’s infrastructure but also contribute to a more vibrant and secure nocturnal landscape.
However, the Minister’s announcement was not devoid of concerns and challenges. Ocloo highlighted specific incidents of vandalism and theft targeting the newly installed streetlights. She revealed that copper wiring within the poles and photocells within the bulbs have become targets for thieves, impeding the project’s smooth execution and incurring additional costs. The photocells, valued at GH¢150 each, present a lucrative target for criminals, further complicating the initiative. This revelation underscores the need for heightened security measures to protect the newly installed infrastructure and ensure the long-term sustainability of the project.
The theft and vandalism not only represent a financial setback but also highlight a broader societal issue that needs addressing. The willingness of individuals to compromise public infrastructure for personal gain undermines the collective effort to improve the city’s environment and the well-being of its residents. Addressing this challenge requires a multi-pronged approach, including increased security surveillance, community awareness campaigns, and potentially stricter penalties for such acts of vandalism. The success of the street lighting initiative hinges not only on the government’s efforts but also on the collective responsibility of the citizenry to protect and maintain public infrastructure.
The Minister’s commitment to transparency, exemplified by the forthcoming press briefing, will play a crucial role in maintaining public trust and support for the initiative. By providing specific details on the progress achieved and the challenges encountered, Ocloo aims to foster open communication and accountability. The briefing will also provide an opportunity to address public concerns, clarify misconceptions, and reiterate the government’s commitment to improving the city’s infrastructure. Ultimately, the success of the street lighting project will depend on a concerted effort from both the government and the public, working together to create a safer, brighter, and more secure Accra.
