On the occasion of Ghana’s 68th Independence Day, Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene has announced a major initiative to restore and maintain street lighting across the region, reinforcing security and development efforts.
With support from the Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Kwame Agbodza, the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council has secured a two-year contract with Prefos Company Ltd. to undertake streetlight maintenance on key highways.
Dr. Amoakohene emphasized that this intervention is part of a broader strategy to ensure that communities across the Ashanti Region are adequately illuminated.
“I am pleased to announce that, with the intervention of the Roads Minister, Hon. Kwame Agbodza, we have successfully engaged Prefos Company Ltd. on a two-year contract through the Highway Authority to maintain key sections of the street lighting network”
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister
The contract will specifically cover the Ejisu Abenase to Tech Police Station route, as well as the Suame to Buoho stretch, two critical areas that serve as major transit points within the region.
However, Dr. Amoakohene noted that this effort would not be limited to these areas. He has instructed all Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to take direct responsibility for street lighting in their respective jurisdictions.
“I have instructed all MMDAs to take responsibility for street lighting in their respective areas, ensuring that no community is left in darkness.
I have also secured the commitment of the Roads Minister to extend maintenance efforts to other areas within the region”
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister
Beyond maintenance efforts, Dr. Amoakohene visited the Prefos Training Center and Factory, where streetlights are assembled.
His visit underscored the importance of local manufacturing and skill development in advancing regional self-reliance.
“It is inspiring to see the dedication to local manufacturing and skill development – key factors in boosting regional employment and self-reliance in infrastructure development,” he remarked.
Parallels to Greater Accra
Dr. Amoakohene’s initiative aligns with similar efforts in the Greater Accra Region, where Regional Minister Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo has launched an ambitious plan to light up 70% of the region within her first 50 days in office.
Her strategy, announced shortly after assuming office, aims to address the long-standing issue of poor street lighting, which has been linked to rising cases of insecurity and road accidents in parts of Accra.
Hon. Ocloo’s plan involves the repair and installation of streetlights across major highways, inner roads, and key public spaces, with special attention to densely populated urban centers.
Her approach, much like Dr. Amoakohene’s, leverages partnerships with local contractors and manufacturers to ensure sustainability and efficiency.
“We cannot talk about security and economic growth if we do not address the issue of street lighting. Darkness creates the perfect conditions for crime, accidents, and economic stagnation. That is why I am committed to lighting up 70% of Accra within the first 50 days”
Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, Greater Accra, Regional Minister
Her rapid response has already seen the illumination of several roads, including parts of the N1 Highway, Accra-Tema Motorway, and inner-city areas such as UPSA, Madina, and Spintex.
The move has received widespread support, particularly from business owners and commuters who have long called for improved lighting conditions to enhance safety and productivity.
A Light Chapter
The ongoing streetlight restoration projects in both the Ashanti and Greater Accra regions signal a renewed focus on security, infrastructure, and economic growth.
By taking concrete steps to brighten their regions, both ministers are addressing a fundamental aspect of urban and regional development that has often been overlooked.
For Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Amoakohene, the goal is to make the region safer and more conducive to economic activity.
“We remain committed to making Ashanti safer, brighter, and more developed. Let’s continue working together to ensure a well-lit and secure environment for all”
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister
As Ghana marks its 68th year of independence, these efforts highlight the country’s ongoing journey toward modernization, self-reliance, and improved living conditions for its citizens.
The initiatives in Ashanti and Greater Accra could serve as blueprints for similar projects in other regions, ensuring that no part of Ghana remains in darkness.
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