A wave of online activism is sweeping across Ghana as citizens demand urgent action over failing streetlights in the capital and other parts of the country, raising concerns about safety, rising accidents, and growing insecurity after dark.
The campaign, largely driven by social media influencer KalyJay, has gained significant traction across social media platforms mainly X, with residents sharing personal experiences of navigating pitch-dark streets and describing Accra’s roads at night as unsafe and poorly lit.
Under the trending hashtag #FixTheStreetLights, thousands of social media users are calling on authorities to restore lighting on major roads, saying the situation has made nighttime travel increasingly dangerous and hazardous.
Responding to the concerns, Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Obenewaa Akweley acknowledged that work is ongoing but admitted that not all streets have been covered.
“We worked on some, not all the streets yet together with highways authority,” she said. “I’m also keeping the MMDCEs on their toes to ensure their respective areas are well lit.”
Motorists say poor visibility makes it difficult to spot potholes and other road hazards, forcing drivers to rely on instinct to navigate safely. Some residents have also raised concerns that criminals and street gangs exploit the darkness to target pedestrians and motorists.
Despite assurances from authorities, public skepticism remains high, with many calling for clearer timelines and more decisive action. Critics argue that national development plans and the government’s “24-hour economy” agenda cannot succeed without basic infrastructure such as reliable street lighting.
As the #FixTheStreetLights campaign continues to gain momentum, pressure is mounting on the Ministry of Roads and Highways and local authorities to urgently restore lighting and improve safety on Accra’s roads.
CREDIT: Mavis Fantevi
