Small businesses across Accra are facing severe disruptions due to ongoing power outages, commonly referred to as “dumsor.” These outages have left business owners, especially those reliant on electricity for evening operations, struggling to stay afloat, since the outage occurs mainly in the evenings.
Sister Esther, a salon owner, reported having to close her shop early, losing out on a GH¢400 payment from a client who needed braiding services. “It’s becoming unbearable. I can’t keep my business running like this,” she lamented.
Sister Ama, a boutique owner, has been unable to open her shop for two consecutive days due to the power cuts. With her shop poorly ventilated, she said, “Without electricity, I can’t stay in my shop; the heat is unbearable.” Her business has suffered significantly as clients call to check her availability and often turn to competitors when she cannot serve them, she explained.
Seamstresses like Sister Barikisu and Mama Helen have also been hit hard. Barikisu, who had to complete a customer’s dress overnight, struggled to work using a flashlight, and Mama Helen resorted to her phone’s light to finish a uniform for a schoolgirl. Both described the outages as increasingly detrimental to their operations.
In the food retail sector, Sister Amina has faced considerable losses, discarding several packs of sausage and chicken after they spoiled due to a lack of refrigeration. “It’s a huge loss, especially since I just restocked my inventory,” she said.
Jibril, who works in printing, noted that the frequent outages have forced him to cut back his working hours, reducing his income as clients turn to competitors with more consistent service.
The power crisis, caused by a gas shortage leading to a 550 MW shortfall at the Tema power station, has left businesses in uncertainty. Citizens are frustrated by the lack of a power schedule, further compounded by a recent 3.02% increase in electricity tariffs, effective October 1.
Small business owners fear that without reliable power, their operations—and livelihoods—are at serious risk.
