Editorial
Fix street lights at Asikasu Central
Street lights along the stretch do not function
Dear Editor,
In Ghana, about three per cent of electricity of tarrifs are for installation and maintenance of street lights.
But, it appears Asikasu Central is an exception as the unavailability of streetlights along some streets is affecting drivers and motorist thus paving the way for criminal activities.
On a recent visit to the area, I saw how dark some of the major streets had become. I realised some electricity poles meant to hold lamps on one of the roads connecting the area to Koforidua were not serving that purpose.
The darkness on the stretch poses great danger to the people. I gathered there was a dark curve on the road where robbers terrorised pedestrians as the place was not lit.
Some residents say the streetlights in the village are only fixed with it was time for general election. There are a few solar-powered lights dotted along the streets and many of them are dim at night.
I am told some residents who travel to Koforidua to transact business refuse to return home whenever it is late due to the ‘danger on the road. Some of them spend the night at the bus terminal until the next morning before they make a return journey.
The lack of streetlights somewhat emboldens armed robbers to attack shop owners along the road. Driver say the dark road causes accidents as some of them also try as much as possible to avoid night travel. Other residents say some taxi drivers sometimes knock down pedestrians and speed off due to the darkness on the street.
I would like to use your medium to urge the local authority to ensure that the street light challenge is resolved quickly to make the area safer for the people.
Bismark Oppong Kofi Addae,
Student, Ghana Institute of Journalist, Accra
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
