Editorial
A call for safer roads: combating accidents in ghana
A state of a deplorable road in ghana
Dear Editor,
Ghana, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and warm hospitality, is facing a pressing issue that threatens the well-being of its citizens and visitors alike. With a steady rise in accidents across the country, urgent action is needed to address the root causes and implement comprehensive measures to ensure safer roads for all.
Over the past few years, Ghana has witnessed a disturbing trend of increasing accident rates. From bustling urban centres to remote rural areas, the impact of these accidents has been devastating, resulting in a significant loss of lives, injuries, and economic repercussions.
One of the primary contributors to this alarming situation is the lack of road safety awareness and adherence to traffic regulations. Ghana’s roads often witness reckless driving behaviours, including over-speeding, disregard for traffic signals, and poor vehicle maintenance. Such disregard for road safety not only endangers the lives of drivers and passengers but also poses a grave risk to pedestrians and cyclists.
Furthermore, inadequate infrastructure and road maintenance play a significant role in exacerbating the accident rates. Potholes, improper signage, poorly lit roads, and inadequate pedestrian crossings are all contributing factors that need to be addressed urgently. These road conditions not only increase the chances of accidents but also hinder emergency response efforts.
The consequences of these accidents go beyond the immediate loss of lives and injuries. Families are shattered, communities are left mourning, and the economy suffers due to increased healthcare costs and productivity loss. It is crucial to recognise that road safety is not just a transportation issue but a matter of public health and overall societal well-being.
However, amidst this disheartening scenario, Ghana is taking proactive steps to combat the growing menace of accidents. The government, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, is initiating campaigns to raise awareness about road safety and the importance of responsible driving. Educational programmes targeting schools, communities, and drivers are being launched to promote a culture of safety and responsibility.
Moreover, there is a renewed focus on strengthening traffic enforcement mechanisms. The Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with transport authorities, is cracking down on traffic offenders and implementing stricter penalties for violations. This increased enforcement aims to send a strong message that reckless driving will not be tolerated, and those who endanger lives will face legal consequences.
The government is investing in infrastructure development to enhance road safety. Initiatives are underway to improve road conditions, expand pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and introduce intelligent transportation systems to manage traffic flow efficiently. These efforts reflect a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all road users.
As citizens, it is our collective responsibility to advocate for change and actively participate in creating safer roads. We must prioritise adherence to traffic regulations, report hazardous road conditions, and support initiatives that promote road safety education and awareness.
DAMOAH ADJOA MONICA (Student of Unimac-Gij)
Editorial
ECG PowerApp: A mixed bag of technical issues, uncredited payment concerns
Dear Editor,
On February 18, 2020, the former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, launched the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) PowerApp, a mobile application designed in-house by staff of ECG.
It was to improve its service delivery to its customers.
The development of the app also meant that customers of ECG would now have the opportunity to purchase power and pay bills using their mobile phones.
That means customers of ECG would no longer have to join long queues to purchase power, but could now do that at their own convenience and in the comfort of their homes.
According to the Communication Officer, the PowerApp has increased annual revenue growth for the company.
He said as of April 2024, the new application system had increased its annual revenue growth by 128 per cent as compared to the old system at negative seven per cent.
Despite these reasons for which the app was developed and the benefits it has brought to ECG, there have been growing concerns among a section of the public on its use.
Some have argued that they were not credited after using the app to recharge their prepaid meter while the money was deducted from their MoMo accounts.
Such experience has made some customers vow not use the app to recharge their prepaid meters but rather go to prepaid vendors nearby to purchase credit. Some are even prepared to travel to far places to purchase prepaid credits.
I think such experience does not speak well of ECG because it could affect public trust in the company in its service delivery. This is the more reason why the ECG has to take the concerns raised by its customers seriously.
Kofi Bruce,
Mampong
Editorial
Our women can deliver
Dear Editor,
I write to congratulate the women that have so far caught the attention of President John Dramani Mahama for ministerial appointment.
So far, over 10 women have been vetted already and they all gave a very good account of themselves and I hope that they perform to the best of their abilities.
This is a good sign from President Mahama who demonstrated a strong resolve to provide an enabling environment for the women to be part of decision making by choosing a woman as his Vice President.
And true to his word, a number of women have been appointed in ministerial positions and others as presidential staffers.
I believe the other appointments to come would also have women making the cut.
This would be a morale booster for the young women out there who thinks that their position is the kitchen or in a man’s house as a wife.
This is a clear case of women given the urge to aim to rise above what society and traditional norms have set for them. I wish them well.
Maame Atta,
Kokompe
