How Constant Electricity Outage Is Affecting Ghana’s Digitalization Drive

A photo collage of Ghana’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia (left), an image of Accra during power outage, and former President John Mahama (right)

Source: Africa Publicity / Ghanaija

Kwame sat at his desk in Accra, staring at his computer screen with a mixture of frustration and resignation. The flickering lights above were a stark reminder of the unreliable power supply that had become a daily part of life in Ghana. As a software developer, Kwame knew all too well how these constant electricity outages were crippling the nation’s digitalization drive.

The sun had just set, casting a warm, golden hue over the bustling city. Yet, for Kwame, and many like him, the day was far from over. He had a deadline to meet, but the frequent power cuts meant he was constantly racing against time. “Another blackout,” he muttered as his computer screen went dark. He reached for his phone to continue his work, hoping the battery would last.

Meanwhile, in Kumasi, Ama, a young entrepreneur, faced similar challenges. She ran a small online business selling handcrafted jewelry. Her business had gained traction, thanks to the reach of social media and her online store. But every time the electricity went out, her orders got delayed, and her customers grew impatient. “How am I supposed to run a business like this?” she lamented, as she lit a candle to continue packing orders in the dim light.

Ghana’s vision of becoming a leading digital economy in Africa is ambitious, and the government has made significant strides in recent years. From rolling out e-government services to encouraging the growth of tech startups, the potential is immense. However, the inconsistent electricity supply is a major stumbling block. It is an irony that in a country with such rich natural resources, including significant hydroelectric power capabilities, the lights often went out.

In Tamale, Alhaji Issah, a seasoned teacher, was embracing digital tools to enhance his lessons. He had recently introduced his students to e-learning platforms, which were intended to supplement their education. Yet, with the constant outages, accessing these resources became a game of chance. “Today, we study the old-fashioned way,” he would say, switching back to chalk and blackboard whenever the power failed.

The impact of these outages extended beyond the individual inconveniences of Kwame, Ama, and Alhaji Issah. Large corporations and international investors were also feeling the pinch. In the Tema industrial area, factories stood idle for hours, sometimes days, due to power cuts. This inconsistency was a deterrent to foreign investment, as businesses could not operate efficiently without a reliable power supply.

Nana Yaa, a tech enthusiast in Cape Coast, saw firsthand how the outages were affecting education at a systemic level. As an ICT teacher in a local high school, she was passionate about equipping her students with the skills needed for the digital age. However, with computers often rendered useless by power cuts, her efforts were constantly undermined. “Our children deserve better,” she would tell her colleagues, “They deserve a fair chance to compete in the global arena.”

Despite these challenges, the resilience of Ghanaians was palpable. Communities were finding ways to adapt. In the coastal town of Takoradi, fishermen pooled resources to invest in solar panels, ensuring they had a reliable power source for their ice-making machines. This innovation allowed them to preserve their catch longer and sell it at better prices, showcasing how renewable energy could be a viable solution.

Back in Accra, Kwame had invested in a small generator to keep his work going. It was noisy and expensive to run, but it was a necessary evil. “We need a more sustainable solution,” he thought, as he considered the environmental impact. Across the street, a cyber café owner had installed inverters and batteries to keep his business running. “It’s not perfect, but it’s something,” he said, watching as young students crowded in to complete their assignments.

The government was not oblivious to these issues. Initiatives were underway to diversify the energy mix, incorporating more solar and wind power to reduce dependency on hydroelectric power, which was vulnerable to climate variations. Policies aimed at encouraging private sector investment in the energy sector were also being rolled out. However, these changes were slow, and the people needed immediate solutions.

In the northern town of Bolgatanga, Alima, a nurse, experienced the dire consequences of power outages in healthcare. Critical medical equipment relied on electricity, and outages could mean the difference between life and death. “We cannot afford to lose lives because of this,” she said, recalling a night when the power cut out during a crucial surgery. Backup generators were a lifeline, but their reliability was not absolute.

The constant outages were also affecting the younger generation’s perception of their future. Joseph, a university student in Ho, wondered if he should leave Ghana after graduation. “How can I start a tech company here if I can’t even keep the lights on?” he asked his friends. They shared his frustration but also his hope. They had grown up in a rapidly changing world, one where digitalization was not just a buzzword but a reality they wanted to be part of.

Despite the challenges, there was a growing movement of innovators who were determined to find solutions. Tech hubs like iSpace in Accra and Kumasi Hive were nurturing young talents and providing them with the resources to innovate. These spaces often had their own power backup systems, allowing the creative minds within to work uninterrupted. “We are the future of Ghana,” said Aba, a robotics engineer, as she showcased a solar-powered device designed to keep small electronics running during outages.

The resilience and ingenuity of Ghanaians in the face of constant electricity outages were a testament to their spirit. However, for Ghana to truly achieve its digitalization goals, systemic changes were needed. Investment in infrastructure, diversification of energy sources, and swift implementation of sustainable solutions were crucial.

Kwame, Ama, Alhaji Issah, Nana Yaa, and countless others continued to dream and work towards a brighter future. They envisioned a Ghana where the power stayed on, where their digital dreams could flourish uninterrupted. They knew that while the road was challenging, the destination was worth every struggle. As the sun rose over Accra, casting its first light on a new day, there was hope. A hope that one day, the lights would stay on, and Ghana’s digital future would shine bright.