Asenso-Boakye targets crime reduction in Bantama with 400 streetlights

The Member of Parliament for Bantama, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has distributed 400 streetlights across eight electoral areas in the Ashanti Region constituency in a bid to improve security and visibility in local communities.

The streetlights were presented on Thursday (6 August) during a ceremony at the MP’s constituency office in Bantama, with each of the eight electoral areas receiving 50 units.

The beneficiary areas are Bantama Ahenbronum, Abrepo Junction, North Suntreso, Adoato-Adumanu, Bohyen-Ampabame, Abrepo Mpatasie, Kokoso-Asubonteng and Ohwim Amanfrom.

Asenso-Boakye said poor street lighting remained a challenge in parts of the constituency despite previous investments aimed at improving public safety.

He said more than 5,000 streetlights had been distributed and installed across Bantama since he became MP five years ago, but theft, vandalism and damage to the facilities continued to undermine the programme.

“We are aware of the challenges affecting the streetlights, including theft and damage, and we are taking steps to resolve them. I will continue to provide streetlights whenever the need arises to ensure that our communities remain safe and well-lit,” he said.

The lawmaker tasked Assembly Members, New Patriotic Party (NPP) electoral area chairpersons and the incoming constituency chairman with ensuring the streetlights are distributed fairly and installed in locations where they are most needed.

He said the initiative was intended to strengthen security, reduce crime and improve living conditions for residents.

Asenso-Boakye also highlighted infrastructure projects undertaken in the constituency, including road improvements, health facilities and AstroTurf pitches.

He announced plans to provide financial support to market women to help expand their businesses, saying the initiative was inspired by his mother’s experience as a trader.

“My mother was a petty trader, and through her hard work she was able to support my education and bring me this far. Supporting market women is one of the ways we can empower families and promote economic growth,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary Assembly Members, Amoako Asante Francis, Assembly Member for the Kokoso-Asubonteng Electoral Area, welcomed the initiative and said the additional streetlights would enhance public safety and support economic activity in the communities.