2 days ago
Ghanaian musician and artist Kuami Eugene has raised a serious concern about the lack of streetlights on many roads in the country, especially at night. The award-winning hitmaker, known for his chart-topping songs and vibrant stage presence, has used his platform to advocate for better infrastructure and safety for citizens.
In a recent statement, the “Rockstar” singer expressed his sadness over the insufficient lighting along several roadways, emphasizing how it negatively impacts the safety and comfort of drivers and pedestrians. His comments come as Ghana grapples with growing concerns about road safety and the need for enhanced public infrastructure.
The absence of streetlights on roads, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, has long been a significant concern for many Ghanaians. In the absence of proper illumination, drivers are forced to navigate in the dark, which increases the likelihood of accidents and makes it difficult for motorists to spot pedestrians or animals that may be on the road.
Kuami Eugene’s public outcry highlights the broader issue of road infrastructure and safety in Ghana. While major highways in urban centers like Accra may have streetlights, many secondary roads in towns and rural areas remain poorly lit. This can lead to dangerous situations, particularly for those traveling at night or in bad weather conditions.
The musician, who is well-loved for his relatable music and down-to-earth personality, has used his platform to speak out on social issues before. In his recent statement, he pleaded with government officials, urban planners, and other relevant authorities to prioritize street lighting as part of the country’s infrastructure development. He expressed that simple interventions, such as the installation of streetlights, could significantly improve the quality of life for citizens and reduce the number of road accidents.
“It's heartbreaking to see how people struggle to navigate our roads at night because of poor visibility. This is something that should be fixed as soon as possible. It’s not just a matter of convenience, but a matter of safety,” Kuami Eugene said in his statement.
Kuami Eugene’s call comes amid increasing public demand for improved infrastructure in Ghana. Over the years, Ghanaians have consistently raised concerns about the state of roads, potholes, inadequate signage, and other critical aspects of road safety. The lack of streetlights is often considered a significant oversight in the planning and maintenance of roads, especially in rapidly growing towns and cities.
Experts agree that well-lit streets are crucial for reducing road traffic fatalities and ensuring that pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers can safely navigate the roads at night. In developed countries, street lighting is considered a basic safety feature, and Ghana's urban development plans are increasingly focusing on addressing such infrastructural gaps.
While the government plays a crucial role in addressing these infrastructural challenges, Kuami Eugene’s comments also point to the importance of collective responsibility. It’s not just the job of public officials to ensure that roads are properly lit and maintained; citizens too can take active roles in advocating for their communities, reporting areas with inadequate lighting, and participating in local government initiatives.
For now, the ball lies in the court of Ghana’s policymakers and local authorities to respond to Kuami Eugene’s concerns. As the nation continues to urbanize and develop, improving infrastructure, including street lighting, will be vital in ensuring the safety of its citizens, especially during the dark hours of the night.
Kuami Eugene’s heartfelt expression of concern over the lack of streetlights highlights an issue that affects millions of Ghanaians every day. While his platform is music, his ability to speak out on social matters demonstrates the influence and power artists can have in driving change. If Ghana hopes to reduce the number of road accidents and create safer spaces for its citizens, attention must be given to basic infrastructural improvements like street lighting.
The government, private sector, and individual citizens must collaborate to make Ghana’s roads safer for all—because a well-lit road is not just a matter of convenience but a matter of life and death.
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