Ghanaians are effectively paying for public streetlights through three distinct funding channels, yet many streets across the country remain dark. Policy analyst Sitsofe Mensah of IMANI Africa revealed this concerning situation, highlighting significant issues with public spending and accountability in the street lighting system.
The problem stems from multiple funding streams that do not appear to deliver value for money. Mr. Mensah pointed to the 3% Public Lighting Levy collected through electricity bills, government expenditure and borrowing, and deductions from the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). These channels collectively commit substantial funds to streetlight projects without adequate systems to track deliveries or installations.
This situation fits into a broader narrative of public finance management challenges in Ghana. The repeated concerns about procurement practices, such as sole-source contracts and unverified deliveries, echo findings often cited in Auditor-General reports. Such weaknesses undermine public trust and raise questions about the efficient use of taxpayer money in critical infrastructure projects.
Sitsofe Mensah specifically cited the 3% Public Lighting Levy under the Energy Sector Levies Act (ESLA), which generated GHS 575.3 million in 2025 from consumers' electricity bills. He also noted approximately GHS 8 billion in contracts awarded by the Ministry of Energy between 2023 and 2025. This figure includes 78 contracts worth GHS 7.5 billion in 2024 alone. Additionally, $33 million in foreign loans and grants were associated with public lighting projects.
The lack of transparency and accountability in these processes has significant implications for public finance and service delivery. Without a reliable asset register, authorities struggle to reconcile contract payments with actual deliveries and functioning streetlights. This increases the risk of waste, poor oversight, and potential procurement abuse. Citizens continue to pay for a service they are not consistently receiving, leading to widespread dissatisfaction and safety concerns.
Moving forward, resolving these issues requires a consolidated account of all public lighting funds. Transparent contract disclosures are essential, alongside independently verified deliveries and a GPS-based register. This register should show the location and operational status of all installed streetlights. Such measures would help ensure that every cedi collected or borrowed can be traced to a functioning public asset. Until this accountability gap is addressed, electricity consumers and taxpayers will continue to question the expenditure on public lighting while many streets remain unlit.
The Ministry of Energy and local assemblies must implement robust tracking and verification systems. This will restore public confidence and ensure that the substantial funds allocated to street lighting achieve their intended purpose. Effective oversight is crucial to prevent further financial leakages and improve public safety across Ghanaian communities. The current system's inefficiencies directly impact the daily lives of citizens, affecting security and economic activity in poorly lit areas.