TIG Post

Tag: Road

  • Road maintenance is govt’s key focus in road sector – Suhuyini

    Road maintenance is govt’s key focus in road sector – Suhuyini

    Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Alhassan Suhuyini, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing road maintenance amid significant financial constraints in the sector.

    His comments come in response to the 2025 budget statement presented by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, which revealed that the government owes contractors a total of GH¢67.5 billion. This figure includes GH¢49.2 billion in unpaid Interim Payment Certificates and invoices from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as GH¢18.3 billion in outstanding Bank Transfer Advice at the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department.

    Speaking to The Independent Ghana on Tuesday, Suhuyini acknowledged the challenge of settling these debts but assured contractors that some payments would be made.

    “They should have absolute confidence that we will settle some of the debts,” he assured. “However, we obviously cannot clear everything at once. The total financial commitment stands at about GH¢100 billion, with unpaid certificates alone amounting to GH¢21 billion. The decision to uncap the Road Fund is a step in the right direction, but it will only make GH¢2 billion available—far from enough to cover even the unpaid certificates.”

    He stressed that the government’s focus on road maintenance is essential to preserving existing infrastructure, which has suffered due to neglect.

    “The minister has stressed that a significant portion of these funds will be directed toward road maintenance. This is a smart move because our poor maintenance culture has resulted in roads deteriorating within 8 to 10 years instead of lasting longer,” he explained.

    Suhuyini also pointed to the broader infrastructure agenda under the ‘Big Push’ initiative, which has been allocated between GH¢10 billion and GH¢13 billion, with many of the projects focusing on roads.

    “If you look at the Big Push and the amount that is allocated, about GH¢10 to GH¢13 billion, many of the projects under the Big Push are road projects, so that will enable us, you know, start new projects and also retire some of the old debts,” he stated.

    According to the 2025 budget, GH¢5.75 billion is owed by the Road Fund, with an allocation of GH¢2.81 billion programmed for road maintenance. This represents a 155.5% increase from the 2024 allocation of GH¢1.1 billion, underscoring the government’s emphasis on sustaining Ghana’s road network.

    With Ghana’s economy valued at GH¢1.2 trillion, stakeholders are closely monitoring how the government will balance infrastructure expansion with financial obligations.

  • Some road contractors owed GHc5,000 – Kwame Agbodza reveals

    Some road contractors owed GHc5,000 – Kwame Agbodza reveals

    Roads and Highways Minister-designate, Kwame Agbodza, has revealed that much was not done by the previous government to pay outstanding amounts owed to road contractors.

    In his submission while before the Appointments Committee today, he noted that some road contractors are owed as little as GH¢5,000.

    He made the comment while expressing his displeasure over the cancellation of road tolls by the then-Akufo-Addo government.

    “They claimed road toll was accruing just ¢80 million but today there are road contractors working in Ghana which are owed GH¢5,000. So the road toll is coming back but not in the form building obstructions on the road for drivers to stop and somebody taking money from them but this coming in a form of technological and fair that will make it easy to collect,” he stated.

    The minister-designate emphasised that road tolls would be reintroduced, however, in a digitized manner and eliminate physical barriers.

    He stated that the future system would involve technology, allowing for fairer and more efficient collection without the need for physical road obstructions or manual toll collection, ensuring a smoother experience for drivers.

    “We decided to caution government that do not cancel road toll but rather find a way to make it better. Which means that we should find a way blocking the leakages and enhance it. So it was surprising that it was canceled or they claimed they zeroed it. For me it was an act of illegality but it had an act and was a law and so they couldn’t unilaterally do that as a road I believe there were some level of negligence in the way it was done,” he added.

  • Akufo-Addo lied, 673km of roads have been constructed since 2017 – Kwame Agbodza

    Akufo-Addo lied, 673km of roads have been constructed since 2017 – Kwame Agbodza

    Roads and Highways Minister-designate, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has accused the Akufo-Addo administration of providing inaccurate information about its achievements in road construction.

    According to him, claims that the government has constructed 11,000 kilometres of roads since 2017 are false and grossly exaggerated.

    Appearing before the Appointments Committee on Monday, January 20, Mr. Agbodza disclosed that records indicate only 673 kilometres of roads have been constructed during the stated period.

    “The claim that 11,000 kilometres of roads have been constructed is misleading. The reality is that, since 2017, only 673 kilometres of roads have been constructed. This figure is based on the actual data and records of road projects completed during that period,” he stated.

    He described the alleged overstatement as a deliberate attempt to mislead Ghanaians and inflate the administration’s accomplishments in road development.

    In December 2020, President Akufo-Addo had touted his government’s achievements in infrastructure, claiming unprecedented investment in the railway and road sectors. While commissioning a 900-meter road over-bridge across the railway at Afienya, he declared:

    “In the last five years of my administration, more construction activity in the railway sector has gone on than any period since Independence. We have laid a solid foundation which will receive even greater impetus by the end of my tenure in 2025.”

    However, Mr. Agbodza argued that despite these proclamations, many communities across the country continue to endure poor road conditions.

    “It’s crucial for the public to be informed of the true extent of road construction efforts,” he said. “With such misleading statistics, it becomes difficult to hold the government accountable for the real progress made in the sector.”

  • Govt yet to settle GHC75bn arrears for about 10,000 road projects – Finance Ministry

    Govt yet to settle GHC75bn arrears for about 10,000 road projects – Finance Ministry

    The government, through the Ministry of Finance, is still grappling with the settlement of GH₵75 billion in arrears for approximately 10,000 ongoing road projects across the country.

    These projects, collectively valued at GH₵135 billion, have faced significant financial challenges, despite efforts to manage public sector finances effectively.

    The Ministry of Finance has so far disbursed GH₵60 billion to address outstanding payments, with GH₵10 billion of this amount paid just this year. However, a substantial portion of the arrears remains unsettled.

    Chief Director at the Ministry of Finance, Madam Eva Mends, highlighted these challenges during a high-level expert panel discussion themed “Closing the Financing Gap in Road Infrastructure Development in Ghana.”

    The event, organized by the Ghana Highway Authority in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Roads and Highways, was part of the activities marking the Authority’s 50th anniversary.

    The event sought to tackle the ongoing difficulties in securing sustainable financing for road infrastructure development and maintenance.

    Madam Mends revealed that despite implementing measures like the certificate of commencement policy and the Government Integrated Financial Management System (GIFMIS) to enhance financial management, some road projects were initiated without the Ministry’s knowledge or proper budgetary allocations.

    “Ministry of Roads and Highways will go ahead and make a commitment, sign a contract. Most of the time, we are not even privy to the contract. And that’s something; a systemic issue we will need to address,” Madam Mends remarked.

    She further observed that many contracts lacked clear spending limits, enabling contractors to extend projects beyond the agreed budget, which has led to delayed payments and accrued interest, undermining value for money.

    “There’s no way we can pay for all those projects in three years, even if we don’t award any contract this year. If we don’t award any contract for the next three years, we still will not be able to pay on time all the contracts that we currently have on our books,” she added.

    Former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Stanbic Bank and the Paramount Chief of Pishigu, Naa Dr. Alhassan Andani, commended the government for acknowledging its limitations in financing all the road projects and called for policy sustainability and payment prioritization to encourage private sector involvement in road infrastructure.

    Dr. Andani also emphasized the importance of developing a master plan for classifying roads based on their viability to aid in prioritization and appropriate financing. These classifications, he suggested, should include social roads, which could be financed by citizens, financial roads that attract private sector interest, and economic roads with long-term benefits.

    Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, Mr. Kwaku Kwarteng, urged politicians and the media to manage public expectations regarding road projects, especially during election periods.

  • Since 2017, my gov’t has completed over 12,830 kilometers of roads, six interchanges – Akufo-Addo

    Since 2017, my gov’t has completed over 12,830 kilometers of roads, six interchanges – Akufo-Addo

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo highlighted the significant strides made in the road sector under his administration.

    Since taking office in 2017, his government has completed over 12,830 kilometers of road and constructed six interchanges, achievements he contrasts with those of the previous administration.

    Speaking at the launch of the District Road Improvement Programme on Wednesday, July 31, the President emphasized that this initiative embodies his administration’s dedication to decentralizing development and ensuring equitable progress across Ghana.

    He also revealed the commissioning of 2,240 pieces of essential equipment, including motor graders, backhoes, and rollers, describing them as vital tools for transformation and a reflection of the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Ghanaians.

    “Improving our road infrastructure is crucial for economic growth and social development,” President Akufo-Addo remarked.

    “This programme will not only advance our road networks but also generate 10,000 jobs for Ghanaians, including roles for mechanics, engineers, and artisans. By equipping local assemblies with necessary resources, we are promoting community ownership and responsibility.”

    He called on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives to fully embrace the initiative and adhere to the guidelines set out by the relevant ministries and stakeholders to ensure the programme’s success.

  • Akufo-Addo launches District Road Improvement Program

    Akufo-Addo launches District Road Improvement Program

    President Akufo-Addo has officially launched the District Road Improvement Program (DRIP) at Independence Square on July 31, 2024.

    This initiative, led by the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, aims to tackle the pressing issue of deteriorating road conditions across the country’s 275 constituencies, which the National Security Ministry has identified as a major national security concern.

    Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, the Minister for Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, provided an in-depth overview of the program during a press briefing at the Ministry of Information Press Centre on Monday, July 29.

    Initiated in 2023 in partnership with the District Assembly Common Fund, DRIP was developed in response to reports of road blockages by communities fed up with poor road infrastructure.

    In June 2024, crucial equipment from China arrived to support the program. Each district will receive a full set of machinery, including backhoes, water tankers, rollers, motor graders, tipper trucks, concrete mixers, and bulldozers, totaling 2,420 pieces.

    Minister Adjei-Korsah emphasized that this effort is a major advancement over past initiatives, which only provided graders, by supplying all necessary equipment for effective road maintenance.

    So far, 80 graders and 80 tipper trucks have been delivered, with additional equipment expected soon. Following the program’s launch, regional and district-level ceremonies will take place to ensure comprehensive implementation.

    The project includes a two-year warranty from suppliers, covering mobile setup and servicing, with a stockpile of parts to support maintenance beyond the initial period.

    A dedicated management team, including MPs, District Chief Executives, the Ghana Armed Forces, and officials from urban and feeder roads offices, will oversee the program’s operations to ensure its success. The initiative also promotes active citizen participation by using electronic tracking systems and bold markings on equipment to facilitate monitoring.

    Responding to concerns about the program’s timing with elections just five months away, Hon. Adjei-Mensah Korsah clarified that the initiative is motivated by the urgent need to improve road infrastructure, not by electoral considerations.

    The DRIP is a crucial step towards enhancing road conditions nationwide, aiming to make unpaved roads motorable and reduce bureaucratic delays in road maintenance interventions.

    The program’s implementation is expected to have a significant impact on local communities, improve accessibility, and address the national security issues associated with poor road conditions.

  • MMDAs to aid road construction with gov’t sponsored equipment – Bawumia

    MMDAs to aid road construction with gov’t sponsored equipment – Bawumia

    Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia has revealed plans to provide Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) nationwide with earth-moving equipment to aid in road construction.

    This effort is part of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), which aims to empower local assemblies to undertake vital infrastructure development projects.

    Funded by the District Assembly Common Fund and donor partners, the DRIP initiative seeks to address the significant infrastructure challenges faced by MMDAs.

    By supplying the necessary equipment, the programme aims to enhance the capacity of local governments to improve road networks and other essential infrastructure.

    At a rally in Wulensi, Northern Region, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the transformative potential of the DRIP for local communities. He stressed the programme’s role in boosting infrastructure development and improving residents’ quality of life across the country.

    Dr. Bawumia expressed his confidence in the DRIP’s ability to significantly enhance the MMDAs’ capacity to effectively address infrastructure issues. He described the initiative as a “game changer,” emphasizing its potential to drive substantial progress in road construction and other development projects at the district level.

    “We now have a new policy that we’re going to implement, which is basically the District Road Improvement Programme. Every district is going to be given a set of road equipment to work on your roads,” Dr. Bawumia announced. “I’m happy to note that all the equipment we have ordered has arrived, and every district will get a set which includes an excavator, backhoe loader, wheel loaders, compact rollers, and tipper trucks.”

  • Adamorobe residents charge to the streets to protest poor road conditions

    Adamorobe residents charge to the streets to protest poor road conditions

    Residents of Adamorobe in the Akuapem South Municipality of the Eastern Region have staged a protest demanding urgent repairs to their crumbling road infrastructure.

    The community’s discontent has reached a boiling point after years of deteriorating road conditions with no intervention from local authorities.

    In an interview with Citi News, the frustrated locals expressed how the state of the roads is severely impacting their daily lives and economic activities.

    They have taken to the streets, donning red bands as a symbol of their discontent and resolve.

    The protestors have issued a stark warning to the government: “No road, no votes.” They are resolute that if their demands for road repairs are not met, they will refuse to participate in the upcoming elections.

    “We are serious about our call for the roads to be fixed. Just as you see these red bands, know that the wind proceeds the rain. If nothing is done soon, we will organize a major demonstration, and if they bring the ballot boxes and the roads are still not fixed, we will not vote,” one resident declared.

    Another protester added, “Since I was born, I have never seen any improvement on this road. Even though local drivers try to assist us, the cost of transportation remains prohibitively high. We urge the government to address this issue. Adamorobe is known as an NPP stronghold, so why has the area been neglected?”

  • We invested GHC10bn on road construction – Finance Minister

    We invested GHC10bn on road construction – Finance Minister

    Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has revealed that the government has invested almost GHC10 billion in the road sector since January, 2024 to enhance transportation and spur growth.

    He made this information known to the entire country when he delivered the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, July 2023.

    “I can also confirm that Government has secured equipment to complement the efforts of our local authorities in improving community roads nationwide,” he added.

     President Akufo-Addo has asserted that his administration has surpassed the combined road infrastructure achievements of the Mills/Mahama era.

    Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the dualization of the Anwiankwanta-Ahenema Kokoben Road on Monday, July 15, Akufo-Addo emphasized the scale of road development during his presidency.

    “We have completed 12,830 kilometres of roads since 2017, a stark contrast to the 4,636 kilometres achieved from 2009 to 2016,” President Akufo-Addo stated, highlighting the extensive roadworks including asphalt overlays, new constructions, bridges, and ongoing interchange projects.

    “The progress made sets a high standard and serves as a blueprint for what can be achieved with dedication and strategic planning. Successive governments must ensure sustained investment in infrastructure to address the road deficit and meet the evolving needs of our rapidly growing population,” the president said.

    Meanwhile, the Chiefs of Hwidiem in the Asutifi South District and Kenyasi Number 1 and 2 in the Ahafo Region have issued a firm ultimatum to the government, demanding the swift resumption of work on the Hwidiem-Kenyasi road.

    At a press conference in Kenyasi, the Chiefs voiced their frustration over the ongoing delays in road repairs, which they argue are severely affecting their communities.

    The contractor, Kofi Job, has been given a strict deadline to resume work or face repercussions.

    The Chiefs have warned that if their demands are not addressed by August 6, 2024, they will stage a large-scale demonstration.

    Nana Agyemang, representing the three communities, criticized the government’s lack of response despite repeated appeals for urgent intervention regarding the deteriorating road conditions.

    “The road continues to worsen with no intervention from the authorities. We urge all citizens to join us in the upcoming demonstration.

    “While we are committed to resolving this issue peacefully, we may have no choice but to continue with protests until the roads are fixed. We hope that the government and other stakeholders will heed our call and take immediate action,” he added.

    This marks Dr. Amin Adam’s debut budget presentation since his appointment to the role in February 2024.

    The presentation of the budget review adheres to Section 28 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), which mandates an update on the government’s fiscal performance and revised financial projections halfway through the fiscal year.

  • Nahinso Chief determined to complete unauthorized road works amid arrest

    Nahinso Chief determined to complete unauthorized road works amid arrest

    The Chief of Nahinso, Nana Addo Boaman, was arrested by officials of the Asokwa Municipal Assembly for initiating road works without official permission.

    The arrest, which occurred over the weekend, followed Nana Boaman’s attempts to address long-standing road issues in the area, which have caused significant flooding despite numerous appeals from residents and motorists.

    Nana Boaman took it upon himself to fill pits and repair the road to alleviate the difficulties faced by the community. Residents of Nahinso, which borders the Bosomtwi District and Oforikrom Municipality, have for years decried the poor road conditions exacerbated by abandoned construction works after drains were built.

    These pits, allegedly resulting from sand-winning activities, frequently cause flooding, making movement difficult and impacting nearby homes.

    In an interview, Nana Boaman expressed his frustration with the authorities’ inaction.

    His initiative to repair the road came after failed attempts to get authorities to address the problem.

    However, the Asokwa Municipal Assembly officials halted the chief’s efforts, citing the lack of official permission. Nana Boaman was subsequently arrested by the Asokwa District Command police but was granted bail over the weekend.

    The Assembly maintains that the chief did not follow the proper procedures before commencing the road works.

    Despite his arrest and the threats he faces, Nana Boaman remains resolute.

  • Nahinso Chief detained for unauthorized road repairs

    Nahinso Chief detained for unauthorized road repairs

    The Chief of Nahinso, Nana Addo Boaman, has been detained by the Asokwa Municipal Assembly for carrying out road repairs without official authorization.

    Nana Boaman clarified that he took on the road repairs due to repeated failures by authorities to address the deteriorating road conditions, which have caused ongoing flooding despite numerous appeals from local residents and motorists.

    He was granted bail over the weekend, according to citinewsroom.com.

    Residents and motorists in Nahinso, a community within the Asokwa Municipality, bordering the Bosomtwi District and Oforikrom Municipality, have long been complaining about the declining state of the roads.

    The road work was halted after the drainage systems were installed, which, according to users, has exacerbated their problems.

    Pits left on parts of the road from alleged sand-winning activities pose serious risks to road users.

    These pits frequently lead to flooding, complicating travel and impacting nearby homes.

    In response, Nana Addo Boaman began filling the pits and repairing the road to improve its condition after his efforts to prompt the authorities were unsuccessful.

    However, officials from the Asokwa Municipal Assembly halted his work, citing the lack of authorization for the repairs.

    The police at the Asokwa District Command arrested him, but he was later released on bail over the weekend.

    The Assembly argues that the chief did not adhere to the proper procedures before commencing the road work.

    Despite his arrest and ongoing challenges, Nana Boaman has vowed to continue working on the road repairs.

  • I have provided you with 2,079km of roads – Akufo-Addo to Ashanti Region residents

    I have provided you with 2,079km of roads – Akufo-Addo to Ashanti Region residents

    President Akufo-Addo has revealed that approximately 2,079 kilometres of roads in the Ashanti Region have been completed under his administration.

    This milestone, he noted, has greatly enhanced the region’s road network, boosting connectivity and facilitating the seamless transportation of goods and services.

    Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the dualisation of the Anwiankwanta-Ahenema Kokoben road, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the extensive road projects undertaken in the region since 2017.

    The President emphasized that the dualisation of the 20-kilometre stretch is poised to resolve the chronic congestion issues that have plagued this critical corridor.

    “This congestion has affected the movement of goods to towns such as Ahenema Kokoben, Brofoyedu, Kotwi, Trede, Dominase, Ofoase Kokoben, Anwiankwanta, Bekwai, and Obuasi, among others,” the President stated.

    The road dualisation project forms part of a broader strategy to enhance the region’s road infrastructure, aimed at reducing travel time, lowering vehicle operating costs, and improving road safety.

    President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to these goals, underscoring the importance of dualising roads in densely populated areas along major corridors to alleviate traffic congestion.

    “The Akufo-Addo Government remains focused on its commitment to the dualisation of roads in densely populated areas along our major corridors,” the President remarked. He also mentioned plans to extend similar initiatives to other parts of the region, including the Suame roundabout to Tafo-Pankrono, and other urban areas across the country, such as Takoradi and Tamale.

    The President called on Kofi Job Construction Limited, the contractor for the Anwiankwanta-Ahenema Kokoben project, to implement traffic management measures to minimize inconvenience for commuters and pedestrians during construction.

    Mr. Francis Boakye-Asenso, the Minister for Roads and Highways, emphasized the strategic importance of the 20-kilometre road.

    He noted that this vital link supports the movement of goods and people, connecting the Western, Central, and Ashanti regions to the northern parts of Ghana.

    “The significance of this 20-kilometre stretch in our transportation architecture cannot be overemphasized,” Mr. Boakye-Asenso said.

    “It plays an essential role in our economy by supporting trade and travel across some of the most important regions of our country.”

    The project will feature an asphaltic concrete pavement with 50mm binder and wearing courses to ensure a durable and high-quality road surface. Service lanes on both sides of the main carriageway from kilometres 10-20 will ensure smoother and safer access to adjoining properties and minor roads.

    Additional features include pedestrian footbridges, walkways, and lay-bys along the urbanized sections to enhance pedestrian safety and facilitate smooth traffic flow.

    The installation of necessary traffic control devices and road line markings will further improve road safety and traffic management.

  •  Prioritize completion of road from Akyem Kyebi-Apapam to Akropong and Tumfa – Chief appeals to govt

     Prioritize completion of road from Akyem Kyebi-Apapam to Akropong and Tumfa – Chief appeals to govt

    Chief of Akyem Kyebi-Apapam, Osabarima Okogyeaman Apagya Ofori IV, has fervently pleaded with the government to give the road that connects Akyem Kyebi-Apapam to Akropong and Tumfa top priority.

    This plea arises as residents along this route grapple with significant challenges in transporting their agricultural produce to market centers, severely impacting their livelihoods.

    The inadequate road infrastructure has resulted in obstacles in bringing foodstuffs to the market, causing some farmers to face financial distress as they struggle to sell their produce, with much of it perishing.

    The chief emphasized that the completion of the road would allow farmers to effectively continue their agricultural operations and effectively sustain their businesses.

    This, he urged government to move quickly to begin construction.

    Teddy Safori Addi, the member of parliament representing the Ayensuano Constituency, concurred with the chief’s observations.

    Additionally, he exhorted political parties and other relevant parties to place a high priority on national harmony and peace, especially in the run-up to the next elections.

  • Enchi Asenkrigua road in Northern region a death trap for users

    Enchi Asenkrigua road in Northern region a death trap for users

    This is Enchi Asenkrigua road, which used to be one of the best roads in Ghana, constructed by a Chinese company funded by the government of Ghana using taxpayers’ money.

    According to an X user, illegal gold miners, including those with licenses, have mined underneath, causing damage.

    He stated that, now the concrete walls that were erected as barriers have been pulled down, and the road is in disrepair. Standing in one spot feels like being in a cave due to the extensive mining activities.

    The ponds left unfilled by the miners pose a hazard to the road’s stability.

    Despite the leaders of the country and traditional area passing through, illegal mining continues unabated.

    The road has been reduced to just a quarter of its original width, with the rest supposed to be a pedestrian path. This poses a significant risk of head-on collisions.

    The situation prompts questions about who is to blame: the Chinese, foreigners, or ourselves. It reflects the current trend of neglect by politicians.

    If this continues, the road’s condition will worsen, endangering lives.

    Watch video below:

  • Accra: Scorching sun forces white man to go almost half-naked in the middle of the road

    Accra: Scorching sun forces white man to go almost half-naked in the middle of the road

    In the bustling streets of Accra, a scene unfolded that left bystanders amused and sympathetic in equal measure.

    It was a scorching hot day, the kind that makes even the most seasoned locals break a sweat just by stepping outside. But for one unsuspecting visitor, the heat proved to be an unexpected challenge.

    As the taxi came to a halt amid the midday heat, a white gentleman emerged from the vehicle, his face flushed with discomfort.

    His attire now clung uncomfortably to his body. In a moment of sheer desperation, the man made a bold decision.

    Right there in the middle of the bustling street, he removed his shirt. It was a sight that drew curious glances from passersby.

  • Ashanti Region: Accident on Akomadan road claims lives of pregnant woman

    Ashanti Region: Accident on Akomadan road claims lives of pregnant woman

    A collision between a tricycle carrying passengers, including a pregnant woman, and a tipper truck has resulted in three fatalities and six injuries in Akomadan, situated in the Offinso North District of the Ashanti Region.

    The tragic incident unfolded around 6 pm on Thursday, February 29, on the Akomadan-Konkoma road.

    The tricycle, transporting several artisans, was heading to Akomadan township when it collided head-on with the tipper truck, loaded with sand, on a narrow section of the road.

    Speaking to the media, the Offinso North District Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Elijah Mamoa stated “It was a crash between a tipper truck and a tricycle. The tipper truck was returning to their base, where they harvest sand and the tricycle was also returning to Akomadan, where it was carrying people before the head-on collision occurred”.

  • GHS150m disbursed by govt for fixing potholes

    GHS150m disbursed by govt for fixing potholes

    Government has disbursed GHS150 million dedicated to addressing the issue of potholes across the country. 

    In a press release issued on February 15, the Ministry outlined plans to commence routine pothole patching activities on major roads, leveraging the dry season to undertake these crucial repairs.

    According to the statement, many roads endured substantial deterioration in the past year due to heavy rains, exacerbating the prevalence of potholes. Recognizing the importance of swift action to mitigate risks and enhance road safety, the Ministry is determined to tackle this challenge head-on.

    “The amount is part of the first quarter releases from the Ministry of Finance to the Ministry of Roads and Highways,” the statement clarified, indicating the government’s commitment to prioritizing road infrastructure maintenance and improvement.

    With the allocated funds, the Department of Urban Roads will spearhead the initiative to patch potholes, targeting major roads across the country. This proactive approach aims to not only reduce the likelihood of accidents but also to prolong the lifespan of Ghana’s road infrastructure, ensuring smoother and safer journeys for motorists and pedestrians alike.

    The Ministry assured the Ghanaian public of its unwavering dedication to addressing road network challenges nationwide. Encouraging cooperation from all stakeholders, including citizens and road users, the Ministry emphasized the importance of collective efforts in achieving tangible improvements in the national road network.

    As Ghana continues its journey towards enhanced infrastructure development and road safety, the allocation of GH¢150 million for pothole repairs underscores the government’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs and improving the overall quality of transportation infrastructure across the country.

  • We have constructed more roads than any other gov’t since 1992 – Bawumia

    We have constructed more roads than any other gov’t since 1992 – Bawumia

    Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia made a bold assertion regarding the government’s achievements in infrastructure development during his address at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra today.

    He declared that the current administration had surpassed all previous governments since 1992 in terms of road construction and rehabilitation.

    According to data from the Ministry of Roads and Highways, over 11,674 kilometers of roads have been constructed or rehabilitated under the government’s tenure.

    Dr. Bawumia emphasized that this massive investment in road infrastructure sets a new benchmark in Ghana’s development history.

    “We have undertaken a major road construction and rehabilitation programme across the country. Over 11,674km of roads, according to data from the Ministry of Roads and Highways. I am not aware of any government that has done as much in the road sector since 1992.

    “We have initiated and overseen the construction and rehabilitation of more railways than any government since 1992,” he said.

    He announced that government will soon outdoor its performance tracker which details all of the government’s achievements in every sector and district in Ghana.

    In March 2023, President Akufo-Addo made the same statement about his government’s achievement in constructing roads.

    In his State of the Nation address delivered on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, in Parliament, President Akufo-Addo said the majority of monies borrowed by his administration had been put towards the construction of roads.

    “Mr Speaker, I am proud of the amount of work that we have done, especially in the road sector. Roads constitute the largest number of questions asked in this House by Members of Parliament; a large amount of the monies we borrow are for road construction. Shall we dare stop constructing roads?,” he said.

    “Mr Speaker, I would like to state categorically that this Government has built more roads than any government in the history of the 4th Republic, and Mr. Speaker, the details of all these roads are attached in the annex to this message. I have done so because, last year, when I made a similar pronouncement, I was met with howls and gasps of incredulity from the Minority benches, and so I thought it’s appropriate, this time, to present it as an annex to the statement, which will be part of Hansard.”

    In response, the Minority Caucus in Parliament described as erroneous and misrepresentation claims by President Akufo-Addo to have built more roads than any other government under the Fourth Republic.

  • Inadequate road mapping endangering drivers – NRSA

    Inadequate road mapping endangering drivers – NRSA


    Director of Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation at the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Daniel Wuaku, has highlighted the deficiency of basic safety elements such as road mapping on some roads, posing challenges to safe driving conditions.

    Despite resource limitations, Mr Wuaku acknowledges the NRSA’s efforts to introduce safety features aimed at assisting drivers in adopting careful driving practices to mitigate road accidents.

    He stressed the need for drivers to exercise heightened safety consciousness in areas lacking these safety aids, emphasizing personal responsibility for ensuring one’s safety on the road.

    In an interview on the AM Show, Mr Wuaku emphasized the importance of educating the public, conducted by the National Road Safety Authority and its stakeholders, on the significance of road designs for enhancing safe driving practices.

    He advocated for increased police enforcement of traffic regulations, commending their ongoing efforts in promoting road safety.

    He called for collective action, stating, “We must give credit to the police for what they have been doing for the past years, and they must carry it, take it up, and move it forward. All of us must join in the wagon to deliver safety on the roads.”

  • 2 arrested for erecting unauthorised speed ramp, causing damage to road

    2 arrested for erecting unauthorised speed ramp, causing damage to road

    Two people have been arrested for destroying a road and erecting an unauthorised speed ramp along the Ho – Sogakope highway in the Volta Region.

    The two have been identified as Saviour Azakasi and Quarshie Godson.

    They were seen in a viral video, in the company of other suspects, causing damage to the highway with concrete blocks and other materials.

    According to a tweet from the Ghana Police Service, both suspects are currently in custody assisting investigation while efforts are underway to get the other suspects arrested.

  • Residents of Volta Region allegedly destroying roads for speed ramps

    Residents of Volta Region allegedly destroying roads for speed ramps

    Reports emerging from the Volta Region indicate that some residents are allegedly destroying roads to install unauthorised speed ramps. 

    This unconventional approach, according to residents, poses a lot of inconvenience to drivers who may want to use the road.

    In a video widely circulating on social media, some young men are seen with shovels and spades, with a heap of sand and heavy blocks on the road in the background. 

    A road user, evidently concerned by the actions of the youth in the area, confronted them but this did not stop the youth from going on with what they were doing.

    This incident is said to have happened at Adidome in the Volta Region.

  • Sinohydro Corporation road project: Portions of road destroyed one year after inauguration

    Sinohydro Corporation road project: Portions of road destroyed one year after inauguration

    A report by JoyNews has highlighted the deplorable state of some roads in the country constructed as part of the Sinohydro Corporation road project.

    It’s just been a year since these roads were inaugurated for use, but they are also being filled with potholes, among others.

    The asphalted road on Papasi Junction, inaugurated on September 8, 2022, has seen an anomaly. As a result, motorists now drive on the shoulder of the road in order not to damage their vehicles.

    For some Ghanaians, they believe the contractors did shoddy work and must be held accountable.

    The government entered into a $2 billion Master Project Support Agreement (MPSA) with the Chinese state-run, Sinohydro Corporation Limited in September 2018.

    Under the deal, Sinohydro, a hydropower engineering and construction firm, will finance and execute the construction of infrastructural projects across the length and breadth of Ghana in exchange to have access to sites to mine bauxite.

    Find JoyNews’ report shedding light on the issue.

  • Drivers complain about terrible road system from Akroso to Agona

    Drivers complain about terrible road system from Akroso to Agona

    The terrible condition of the roads from Akyem Oda to Agona Swedru has drawn criticism from commuters and drivers.

    According to a report by rainbowradioonline, the locals allege that the terrible situation only became worse when the contractor departed the site, which resulted in a number of problems, including damage to their vehicles.

    Expressing their concern, some of the drivers lamented, “This road gives us problems a lot. Every second, we take our cars to the shop. We take our cars to shop three times a week.”

    “From Swedru to Akroso is an hour’s journey, but because of the nature of the road, we take three hours when travelling,” they added.

    They urged the authorities to request the contractor to temporarily flatten the road as it was causing damage to their vehicles.

    The poor road conditions were said to be discouraging tourists from visiting the Big Tree tourism spot in Aprokumasi in the Eastern region, and many were opting not to return or recommend the location to others.

    Rather than waiting until an election year to address their pressing concerns, commuters implored the government to contact the contractor to complete the road and express their dissatisfaction with the uncomfortable road conditions.

  • Contractor abandons Kenyasi-Hwidiem road project,despite full payment

    Contractor abandons Kenyasi-Hwidiem road project,despite full payment

    The youth residing in Kenyase, a community situated within the Ahafo region, have expressed their intention to initiate a demonstration as a response to the actions of a contractor responsible for a road project within their locality.

    This contractor, despite having received complete payments as stipulated in the contract agreement, has chosen to abandon the project site, leaving the work incomplete and the community in a state of dissatisfaction and frustration, prompting the youth to contemplate taking to the streets to voice their grievances through a protest.

    The Contractor, Kofi Job Construction Limited was fully paid 95.4 million cedis for the upgrade of Hwidiem-Kenyase road by Newmont Ghana Gold Ahafo Mine.

    But, a visit by some members of the Journalists from Business Advocacy to the community, saw the absence of the contractor on site after reconstructing nearly 60% of the road with asphalt.

    Buildings along the Kenyase-Hwidiem road are losing their original paintings as dust and mud from the stretch discolour their identities.

    Economic activities along the untarred portions of the road are grinding to a halt with some local shops closing down.

    A hairdresser at Hwidiem, Mercy Ebedawo has had to deal with the dusty road for three months now.

    “The dusty really worries us. It’s better today. When the tricycle pass here they pollute the air with lots of dust. We always have catarrh,” she said.

    It was a great relief for traders and road users when the reconstruction of the 8.2 km road commenced in 2022 with full sponsorship from Newmont Ghana Gold Limited.

    The project, awarded to Kofi Job Construction, was originally estimated at GH₵70.3 million but halted in the early parts of the year.

    JoyNews sources indicate the contractor demanded additional payments following inflationary pressures and the worsening road conditions.

    This saw a re-evaluation of the contract cost to GH₵95.4 million to be absorbed by Newmont.

    Sources at the mine indicate a full payment of cost was subsequently made to the contractor through the Ministry of Roads and Highways.

    This is corroborated by the Akwamuhene of Kenyase No. 2, Nana Owusu Boadu Ayeboafo.

    Acting President, Kenyasi No. 2 Traditional Council – Nana Owusu Boadu Ayeboafo

    “We went for a meeting where Newmont informed us they’ve paid the contractor the new costs. But after payment we haven’t seen the contractor on sight again,” he said.

    The project is presently only halfway completed with no sight of the contractor’s equipment on site for continuation.

    “The stones on the road are cutting through our car tyres. It’s bringing a lot of problems to us. We have to service the car every two weeks,” Eric Ofori, a driver said.

    Mercy alludes that: “Many shops along the stretch have had to close down. Because of the dust, the shops here are opened only during market days”.

    The road is an important stretch linking Kenyase and adjoining communities to the main Kumasi-Goaso road.

    Nana Boadu Ayeboafo slammed the Ghana Highways Authority for allowing full payment to the contractor without completing the work.

    “We have never heard this before, that Ghana Highways Authority knows that the contractor has not completed the project, but you help raise certificates for Newmont to pay. We are advising them that they should not allow this to happen again because we have never heard of this anywhere before,” he lamented.

    Youth in the communities are incensed by the abrupt abandonment of the road project, threatening to stage protests against the local government in demand for the completion of works.

    Ahafo-Kenyase No. 2 Youth Development Leader, Abdul Karim Yeboah says the residents are unhappy with the development.

    “Newmont has said in front of the regional minister, and we’ve seen documents confirming that the contractor has been paid. We will demonstrate to whoever is responsible to ensure that this road is fixed” he said.

  • A/R: Developer sets confusion in Emena after demolishing part of cemetery for road

    A/R: Developer sets confusion in Emena after demolishing part of cemetery for road

    Residents of the Emena Constituency in the Ashanti Region are threatening turmoil if the police do not free three people who were detained for allegedly trying to stop a private developer from building a road through a cemetery. Tensions are rising in the area.

    The young man said that the aforementioned construction had led to the exhumation of ancestors’ remains and the destruction of several cemeteries.

    The residents of the town protested the road project’s damage to the cemetery in an effort to protect the burial grounds, which led to their arrest, according to a report filed by UTV. As a result, the private developer began building a road leading to his residence, directing it through the town cemetery.

    In an interview with UTV, an assemblyman from the Emena Boadi Appiahdu Kokoben electoral district, Kenneth Owusu Bediako, offered his support for the young people, noting his own observation of three tombs that had been destroyed. He highlighted that it is forbidden to exhume grave remains.

    “For me, I heard on Friday that they have brought grader to demolish our graves which has resulted in some graves of our fathers being exposed, so, I went to the police station to discuss with them, for myself I have witnessed about three graves that have been demolished…so, I support the steps that the youths have taken because it is a great taboo to exhume our grandfathers’ grave with a grader.”

    Several residents voiced their concerns over the issue. One resident lamented, “What is painful is that someone has taken the law into his hands to exhume our graves, believing that his son, a Circuit Court Judge, will deliver justice on his behalf, disregarding the feelings of the community.”

    Several residents voiced their concerns over the issue. One resident lamented, “What is painful is that someone has taken the law into his hands to exhume our graves, believing that his son, a Circuit Court Judge, will deliver justice on his behalf, disregarding the feelings of the community.”

    Additionally, from another resident, “My father Kwaku Mensah’s grave is now exposed. We implore our leaders to intervene and protect our cemetery.”

  • Assin North road project repotedly abandoned after by-elections

    Assin North road project repotedly abandoned after by-elections

    The rapid development of roads and other crucial infrastructure in the Assin North Constituency has reportedly come to a standstill prior to the upcoming by-election in the area.

    According to reports, a significant number of contractors, who were appointed by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration, have abandoned the ongoing projects and left the construction sites despite receiving funds from the government.

    Peace FM shared a video showcasing an unfinished road development project in Assin Akonfudi, a community within the Assin North Constituency.

    While a large portion of the road had undergone grading, only one side had been coated with a black substance, which could be tar or bitumen.

    Interestingly, the substance has also been applied directly onto bare sand at certain points without the presence of gravels, unlike other sections of the road.

    The residents according to Peace FM have been complaining bitterly about the abandonment of the road.

    They are saying that the government was only deceiving them into voting for their candidate in the by-election.

    About the Assin North election:

    According to the Electoral Commission’s announcement, James Gyakye Quayson garnered a total of 17,245 votes, representing 57.56% of the total votes cast.

    His closest contender, Charles Opoku of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), received 12,630 votes, accounting for 42.15% of the votes.

    Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party Ghana (LPG) secured 87 votes, which represented 0.29% of the overall tally.

    The by-election in Assin North was held to fill the parliamentary seat left vacant following a legal battle that questioned Quayson’s eligibility to hold office due to dual citizenship concerns.

  • Chinese citizen jailed in Uganda after tragic accident

    Chinese citizen jailed in Uganda after tragic accident

    In connection with a Tuesday morning car accident that claimed the lives of two pupils and injured three others, police in central Uganda have apprehended a Chinese national.

    Zhao Haizhanga is accused of knocking students at Kamusenene Village along Lubaali-Bukuya Road in Kassanda District as he tried to pass a truck carrying logs, according to a statement from the police.

    “He killed two instantly and injured the other three yet to be identified,” the police statement said.

    The two bodies were taken to a local mortuary awaiting post-mortem.

    Mr Haizhanga was detained by police as investigation on the incident continues.

  • Let’s commercialise our roads – Professor Lord Mensah

    Let’s commercialise our roads – Professor Lord Mensah

    Lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School, Professor Lord Mensah, has called for the commercialization of roads in Ghana to improve the country’s road maintenance culture.

    Speaking in an interview with Samuel Eshun on Fact Sheet on eTV Ghana, Professor Mensah stated that Ghanaian politicians often prioritize road construction as a means of flexing their political muscle, rather than prioritizing the maintenance of existing roads.

    To address this issue, Professor Mensah suggests that Ghana could learn from other emerging economies where tolls are collected for some measured distance travelled on the road.

    “If you turn up to come to our environment, you realize that our politicians often flex their muscle through promising of roads and that is why probably we’ve not had the opportunity to prioritize most of our roads. In other emerging economies, there are some roads that are even premium,” he noted.

    He re-echoed that tolls can generate funds that can be used for the maintenance and expansion of Ghana’s road network.

    Using the example of the road from Keta to the Western side of the city in Accra, Professor Mensah recommended the creation of a commercial road that would bypass the congested traffic in Lapaz through to Kasoa.

    He suggested that such a road could be built beyond Kasoa and a toll could be placed on it, making it a premium road that would offer a faster and more efficient route for commuters.

    Professor Mensah also expressed concern about the cost being created as a result of policy inconsistencies with the current administration.

    He stated that the cost is significant, but difficult to quantify and that it is unclear who will be held responsible for this loss under the current and previous governments.

    “The standard now that we have achieved is okay but the cost being created as a result of the policy inconsistencies that we have with this administration is alarming. The cost is a huge one and you can’t even quantify it and who’s going to be charged for this loss. We can’t identify anybody,” he bemoaned.

    In November 2021, the government abolished road tolls to reduce traffic flow and enhance productivity. However, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, is now proposing to bring back the tax, this time at a higher rate.

  • Government issues list of roads completed between 2017 and 2022

    Government issues list of roads completed between 2017 and 2022

    A list of government’s completed road projects between January 2017 and December 2022 has been released by the Ministry of Roads and Highways.

    This follows the president’s claim while delivering the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament on Wednesday, March 8 that his administration had built more roads than any other in the history of Ghana’s 4th Republic.

    President Akufo-Addo indicated that the majority of monies borrowed had gone into the construction of roads.

    The Roads Ministry named Pokuase Interchange, Tema Motorway Interchange Ph.1, Suhum Interchange, among others as some of the road projects completed by the Nana Akufo-Addo administration.

  • Simon Osei-Mensah orders arrest of man challenging order to remove cocoa dried on road

    Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah, could not hold his frustration when he came across cocoa beans being dried on a road during his maiden tour of roads in Atwima Mponua, a suburb of his region.

    A viral video sighted by GhanaWeb showed the minister ordering some men, purportedly the farmers who dried the cocoa beans, to remove them from the road.

    The order of the minister did not sit well with one of the farmers, who said they had done nothing wrong and suggested that the minister should rather focus on fighting the menace of galamsey.

    This infuriated Simon Osei-Mensah, who then threatened to arrest the farmer.

    “You think Ghana belongs to you, right, Hurry up and remove these cocoa beans from the road. When have you seen people drying cocoa on the roads?

    “You’re telling me that this is not galamsey. If you’re not careful, I will order your arrest,” he said in Twi.

    The farmer retorted: “If you arrest me, I will be released soon”.

    This further infuriated the minister, who ordered the arrest of the farmer despite several pleas by onlookers.

     

  • Commercial drivers demonstrate over bad roads at Osudoku

    Scores of commercial drivers and the people of Osudoku in the Shai Osudoku district this morning, Monday, 26 September 2022, are demonstrating their displeasure over the deplorable road network state from Akuse Junction to Akuse township, Asutsuary to Osuwem and Volivo.

    According to them, the deplorable road networks are negatively affecting the local economy and driving business downwards.

    They are, therefore, appealing to the government to fix the bad roads in the Osudoku enclaves.

    The leaders of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union – Asutsuary to Somanya, Osuwem, and Volivo said they have petitioned Shai-Osudoku District Assembly even to reshape the gulley road networks, but nothing has been done.

    They said they have no option but to embark on a peaceful protest to draw attention to their demand.

     

  • Return contract certificate if you can’t complete roads – W/R Minister to contractors

    The Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah has asked road contractors who are unable to undertake road contracts awarded them to return their contract certificates.

    There abound a litany of roads awarded on contracts, yet contractors are not on site as some have abandoned work midstream with the excuse of they not being paid by government for works so far executed.

    “There are a lot of road contracts in the western region, what we have seen is that some contractors are not doing their best. What we are saying is that any contractor who is not ready for the contract should write a letter to the ministry detailing his or her inability to fulfill the contract so that we re-award it. We are not ready to plead with any contractor again”, he emphasized.

    The Western Region in recent times has seen some agitations by chiefs and indigenes over poor roads for which politicians keep emphasizing are on contract. The attitude by the contractors is seen as unfair by the Western Regional Minister.

    “When the contractors were coming for the tendering process they brought along letters from their respective banks assuring the government that they had enough money to complete the contract. So if all of a sudden you turn around and complain of insufficient funds to complete the work then it means you are trying to deceive the government.”
    he fumed over.

    Just this week, chiefs in the Ahanta West Municipality have had to take to demonstrating over poor roads at Sankor – Cape 3 points although for the past 2 years they kept being impressed upon that the roads are all on contract since 2020 yet no contractor is on-site till date.

     

  • Pig farm, Accra Newtown, Mallam Atta roads almost deserted as stores closed down

    Commercial vehicle drivers – trotro and taxi drivers – have on Monday, December 6, 2021 embarked on a nationwide strike.

    Just as workers and students are affected by this strike, traders on the other hand are equally stranded as their most preferred means of transportation, trotro and taxis, are on a sit-down strike.

    GhanaWeb business took a tour on some principal roads of Accra Newtown, Mallam Atta through to pig farm and the news team realised that most of the shops were closed.

    The roads looked almost empty as only a few people were spotted walking on the streets.

    These commercial vehicle drivers are asking government to remove five taxes captured in the 2022 budget.

    The five taxes and levies are the Price Stabilization and Recovery Levy, the Special Petroleum Tax, Energy Sector Levy, Energy Debt Recovery Levy, and the Sanitation and Pollution Levy from the pump price of petroleum products.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Residents of Nyamekrom construct bridge to enable teachers, nurses resume work

    Residents of Nyamekrom, a suburb of New Juaben South in the Eastern Region, on Sunday, October 24 mobilised to construct a wooden footbridge to enable students, teachers, and nurses, in particular, to cross the Kwakwanua river which overflowed its banks, collapsed and washed away a bridge cutting off the entire community.

    Nyamekrom a suburb of the Eastern Regional Capital with a population of over 5000 was cut off on Friday, October 22, 2021, after a heavy downpour that caused the river to flood the road and about 30 homes, violently washed away a bridge and portion of the 10.1 kilometres Koforidua -Nyamekrom to Supriso road.

    Residents who had travelled before the disaster could not return while those in their homes could not leave to town. Nurses, teachers, students and workers were equally stranded.

    On Sunday, October 24, 2021, the youth in the community mobilised to construct a wooded footbridge downstream of the river to temporarily aid crossing from Monday.

    “Since the incident happened, everybody in this Community is stranded. Nobody goes nobody comes. This is the only road that links Nyamekrom and other Communities to Koforidua. In fact, the disaster has affected us very well. So we are constructing this footbridge to enable us to cross in the meantime. But we are appealing to the government to come to our aid,” one of the community members, Johnson Yeboah Gyekye told Starr News.

    The Assembly Member for Nyamekrom Enock Boahene told Starr News, the situation needs an emergency response by the Central government to reconstruct the bridge immediately to restore normalcy to the community.

    “Government should treat our situation as an emergency because we have been cut off. No car is able to come here and no resident is also able to cross on foot. We are here to construct a footbridge to help teachers, students, nurses and traders to cross by foot from Monday”.

    According to the Assemblymember, the disaster is creating serious sanitation challenges which would worsen in the coming days due to the inability of waste collection vehicles to cross to the community to empty waste generated by residents.

    The Assemblymember stated that the flood submerged about 30 homes and displaced dozens. He said a poultry farm was equally flooded, drowned and carried away the birds.

    The New Juaben South Municipal Chief Executive, Isaac Appaw Gyasi on Sunday visited the scene to assess the situation.

    The 10.1-kilometre Koforidua -Nyamekrom to Supriso road was awarded to contract and sod-cutting ceremony performed by the Vice President Dr Mahamadu Bawumia on October 27, 2020, but construction work is progressing at a snail pace.

    Nyamekrom floods again, more houses submerge, roads cut off.

    Source: starrfm.com.gh

  • Road users must be disciplined Eastern Regional Minister urges

    The Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, has urged road users especially those who use the Eastern corridor roads to be responsible and disciplined on the roads.

    Over 150 people have died from road accidents in the Eastern region during the first quarter of the 2021.

    Reacting to the high number of road accidents in the region, the minister said on Morning Starr on Monday, June 7, that there is high indiscipline exhibited by most road users leading to several deaths on the road.

    Mr. Acheampong added that everyone must be responsible and respect all road regulations, “the over speeding is killing more people. Road users should also check their cars before taking off, Vehicles are machines and should be serviced. We have Police patrolling on the road and we will protect everyone.”

    Touching on the increasing Highway robberies in the region, the Minister said two suspects have been arrested in connection with the market woman who was shot by robbers on the Akyem Ettukrom to Bunso stretch of the Koforidua to Bunso Highway Sunday dawn.

    He added that several ammunitions have been retrieved from the robbers with investigations still ongoing.

    The Notorious Highway robbery gang terrorizing residents in Abuakwa North and South Municipalities in the Eastern killed the woman after blocking the Akyem Ettukrom to Bunso stretch of the Koforidua to Bunso Highway. According to witnesses, the robbery operation started at about 3:00 am with the suspects succeeding in robbing many commuters.

    The robbers escaped into the bush before the arrival of the Police patrol team. The Police patrol team, however, in collaboration with a section of the youth in the community combed the bush at site two near Bunso and after many minutes and arrested two suspects Haruna Amadu, 25, and Joseph Nyira, 25.

    Two unregistered single-barrel shotguns, one machete, cash sum of GhC257.00, one itel screen touch mobile phone, three-neck bags containing two voter ID cards belonging to two of the victims, assorted mobile sim cards belonging to victims and a black student bag containing shirts of the suspects were retrieved.

    Some of the victims who lodged a formal complaint at the Bunso Police station identified suspect Haruna Amadu as the one who shot and killed the woman.

    A search in a bag in possession of Joseph Nyira revealed a kente material shirt which the victims say was worn by suspect Haruna Amadu at the time of the robbery.
    However, the suspects have denied their involvement in the robbery.

    Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Eastern Regional Police Command, DSP Ebenezer Tetteh said, the suspects are in Police custody assisting the investigation and will be put before court on Monday.

    He added that all the exhibits have been retained for evidential purposes.
    At least 10 robbery attacks have been recorded in two Municipalities in the last three months.

    On May 24, 2021, one person was shot during a similar highway robbery attack on Koforidua to Akyem Kukurantumi road in the Eastern region.

    The robbers mounted a roadblock about 4:30 am at Barfuor Nkwanta near Sorkode Dwaso junction stretch of the road where Police mostly conduct checks on commuting vehicles.

    About 20 vehicles were allegedly robbed by the armed robbers who made away with a total of about Ghc50,000 according to a victim.

    On Wednesday, April 28, 2021, the robbers attacked a Guest House and a gas filling station at Akyem Kukurantumi about 8:00 pm amidst the firing of gunshots, they also broke into a restaurant of the guest house, caused damage to the doors and took away Ghc137 from the gas filling station office.

    They also took away a single-barreled gun which was placed against a wall by the night security man who took to his heels during the robbery operation.
    Fortunately, no casualties were recorded.

    Seven empty BB cartridges, one live BB cartridge and three wads were retrieved at the scene. The robbers escaped in a dark saloon car.

    The robbery attack happened barely three weeks after a similar fuel robbery led to the death of a 32-year-old Nuhu Yashawu at Akyem Osiem a nearby community.

    One person also sustained gunshot wounds in that robbery incident which occurred on Monday, April 5, 2021, at about 7:20 pm where four men armed with three pump action guns and a knife attacked Goodness Energy Filling station in the community.

    The robbers absconded with an unquantified amount being the night sales of the fuel station. The robbers also took away a Motorola phone belonging to the night security man Adamu Zakari,30.

    Police retrieved five (5) empty cartridges at the scene. Three Gold Dealers in Kibi and Asikam were also robbed amidst the firing of gunshots by the suspects.

    Source: starrfm.com.gh

  • Kodjonya Asafoatse, Assemblyman raise alarm over ‘accident prone’ damaged roads

    Asafoatse of Kodjonya in the Manya Krobo Traditional Area in the Eastern Region is worried that portions of the main Trom Junction-Somanya-Kpong highway pose threats to motorists, passengers, pedestrians and residents.

    Significant portions of the 15.8-kilometre asphalt overlay constructed in 2016 have already seen worrying deterioration with gaping potholes visible on the stretch.

    At Kodjonya, parts of the road panning over thirty yards, have caved into the gutter very close to adjoining homes. This poses danger to both residents and pedestrians who risk being rammed into by oncoming vehicles.

    Nene Ayerteye Bana III, Asafoatse of Kodjonya said persistent calls on officials of the Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Assembly to fix the broken drainages have not yielded any response yet.

    “Our road has deteriorated for the past four months and I was at the Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Assembly to inform them. They have done nothing about it with the excuse that they were yet to receive their share of the Common Fund and that it’d be done once the Common Fund arrived,” said the Asafoatse.

    The Asafoatse who said the explanation did not go down well with him said the Assembly should be forthright and tell them if it’s not in the position to repair the road so he’ll mobilize members of the community to fix it.

    The traditional ruler was unequivocal that he would take action against the Assembly if it failed to act on the concerns of the people and an accident claims any lives as a result.

    He said, “The road is deteriorating so I want to find out from them if they won’t [repair it] they should tell us so we can contribute to fix it if need be but if they fail to do it and a vehicle kills anybody as a result of that, I won’t agree,” he warned.

    Nene Ayerteye Bana III who accused public administrators of only acting when disaster strikes accused the MCE of the area, Simon Kweku Tetteh, officials of the Assembly and government officials who use the road of seeing the neglect but failing to act on their demands.

    Assemblyman for Kodjonya-Menekpo Electoral Area, Grabriel Tettey also recounted his concerns to GhanaWeb.

    “When the issue first came up in November, I reported it to the Municipal Assembly. I took pictures of it and sent it to the MCE and the Municipal Engineer as well as the Regional Engineer,” said Gabriel Tettey, adding that the officials promised to attend to the problem as soon as possible.

    “What they told me was that they have seen it and would factor it into the speed ramp project and fix the gutter but up till now, we are yet to see anything.”

    According to the Assemblyman, he followed up with the Municipal Assembly in February this year who assured him that repair works would be carried out on the damaged portions of the road and drainages through a budget proposal from the national headquarters through the Regional Ghana Highway Authority.
    However, there has been no feedback since then.

    The situation, he noted was a matter of concern for the community since the highway is a link road to the Eastern Corridor, adding that on weekends and on market days, the area is congested and this is worsened by the limestone haulage trucks.

    He described the situation as life-threatening for road users including residents, pedestrians and drivers and called on the Municipal Assembly to immediately attend to the road.

    The Municipal Roads Engineer, Mr Opoku Agyemang when contacted by GhanaWeb confirmed the fears raised by the Assemblyman and Asafoatse but blamed delays in the approval of budgets for the maintenance works on the Kodjonya situation and other road networks in the municipality for the delay.

    According to him, the problem as well as similar ones identified on portions of other roads would be addressed as soon as budget allocations were approved.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Western Region to see new dawn of road infrastructure Minister

    Minister for Roads and Highways Kwasi Amoako Atta has announced that works on the much anticipated PTC Roundabout in Takoradi in the Western Region will begin in September this year.

    According to him, this will be after the Vice President, Alhaji Dr Muhammudu Bawumia, has performed a sod-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, September 1.

    Giving an update on current road works ongoing in the Western Region ahead of a two-day working tour by President Nana Addo Akufo-Addo, Mr Amoako Attah indicated that the ceremony will pave the way for a “new dawn of road infrastructure” in the Region.

    He mentioned that a total road network of 1,258 kilometres is currently under construction and are at different stages of completion in the Region.

    He mentioned that 80 new road projects are currently ongoing, 27 of which are being supervised by the Ghana Highways Authority, 34 under Feeder Roads, and the remaining being managed by the Urban Roads Department.

    “All of these projects are at advanced stages of completion,” he emphasized.

    He also revealed that apart from the 80 road projects currently ongoing “25 separate road projects are being considered for construction in September”.

    “These new 25 road projects, encompass 10 road projects which would be supervised by the Ghana Highways Authority, 5 under Feeder Roads, and 10 others under Urban Roads.

    The Western Region has a total road network of 5,289.7 kilometres.

    About 45 percent of it is in a very poor state, and thus deserves a facelift.

    Source: 3 News

  • Government will fulfill promises on road projects – MCE

    Mr. Fred Obeng, Old Tafo Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), has given the assurance that the government would not disappoint the people in the execution of road projects.

    “In fulfilment of the government’s declaration of 2020 as the Year of Roads, we are on course to putting to good shape the road network at Old Tafo and other areas in the Municipality,” he noted.

    Mr. Obeng, speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), after cutting a sod for work to commence on the reconstruction of the OKESS Junction-Suame Magazine road, said the needs of the people would be addressed.

    The four-kilometre stretch of road, a project of the World Bank and Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD), is expected to be completed in nine months.

    It is being executed by Messrs Goldprint Company Limited.

    Mr Obeng explained that when completed, the project would help facilitate socio-economic activities for commuters who ply the road, especially those working at the Suame Magazine, the largest automobile spare parts sales and repairs and metal fabrication enclave in the West African sub-region.

    He advised the people to be supportive of development projects designed for their wellbeing and charged the contractors to strive to work and complete the project that was in a strategic location in the municipality, on schedule.

    Source: Business Ghana

  • Better roads should lead to economic growth, not accidents Akufo-Addo

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has indicated that better roads should be the catalyst for national development and not an instrument of death and pain, cautioning motorists to be extra careful and disciplined on the highways and resist the temptation of over-speeding.

    He said it is time accidents in the country are brought under control, reminding Ghanaians of their responsibility to be disciplined on the road to making accident a thing of the past.

    “As we talk about upgrading the condition of our highways, we as Ghanaians need to be responsible in the use of our roads. Although the necessary safeguards have been put in place, the frequency of accidents on our highways due to over-speeding and indiscipline are a great reproach to us all,” he said.

    Speaking at the opening of first phase the Tema Motorway interchange project to improve traffic congestion and trade facilitation for Ghana and its neighboring countries, the president said safety on the roads are critical to national development and enhancing the growth of key sectors of the economy, stating that the completion of phase one of the Tema interchange project is such a welcome development.

    “The provision of quality road infrastructure is an important tool of the socio-economic development of our country and government will ensure the even spread of such project across the country,” he said.

    He called on agencies and departments of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, especially the Ghana Highway Authority, in collaboration with the National Road Safety Authority and the patrol unit of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service to intensify their educational and sensitization activities on speed control and road preservation. He appealed to Ghanaian, particularly drivers, to use the road responsibly and productively.

    Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwesi Amoako Attah disclosed that the motorway round about is a five legged round about serving the people of Tema and its surrounding areas, including neighboring countries in the sub region.

    The project, which cost US$57 million, was a grant from the Japan International Cooperation and Agency (JICA), took 28 months to be completed on schedule by the contractor, Shimuzu- Dai Nippon and CTI Engineering, a supervising consultant, and generated over 1000 direct and indirect jobs

    Components of the project include construction of underpass (Box culvert of 190m) on the east-west (Accra-Aflao road), total road length of 4km, four pedestrian bridges, five serving roads for right turning traffic, traffic signals and street lights and drainage, ramps and landscape.

    According to him, agreements concerning the second phase of the project would be signed in the next two weeks for construction works to commence in the fourth quarter of this year, expanding the interchange from two to three tiers. He thanked drivers for their patience during the first phase and encourage them to exhibit same patience for the realization of the second phase.

    Ambassador of Japan to Ghana, Tsutomu Himeno and Chief Representative of JICA Ghana, Yasumichi Araki expressed excitement about the long standing relationship between Ghana and Japan since 1963, and their enormous support for Ghana in the areas of road, health, agriculture, industry and other significant sectors.

    They expressed gratitude to all whose continues effort made the construction of the project a reality. They advised authorities in charge to maintain the quality of the facility and keep safely for road user.

    Source: B&FT Online

  • Manso-Yawkrom residents call for rehabilitation of their road networks

    The chiefs and people of Manso-Yawkrom in the Amansie West District, have appealed to the assembly and government to rehabilitate the road networks in the area.

    They said the deplorable nature of the roads in the area, was not only making living conditions there very difficult for the people, but had also become a haven for armed robbers and other criminals.

    Nana Kwaku Ti, Chief of the community told the Ghana News Agency during a visit that, it seems politicians were failing them.

    He said some portions of the road which were awarded on contract about four years ago, had been abandoned without any explanation from anybody.

    Nana Ti, who is also the Akwamuhene of Manso-Nkwata Traditional Area, said most people in the area were becoming disillusioned and frustrated by the numerous promises by politicians, which had never been fulfilled over the years.

    Mr Osei Boateng, a teacher in the community, spoke of the dilapidated nature of classroom blocks, lack of toilet facilities and potable water supply in the community.

    He said it was becoming difficult for residents to live normal lives in the community and appealed to the Manso-Nkwanta district assembly to take steps to provide the needed social infrastructure to improve the living conditions in the community.

    Source: GNA

  • ‘Road contractors must collaborate to avoid disruption of telecom services, utilities’ – Ashigbey

    The Chairperson of the National Engineering Coordinating Team (NECT), Kenneth Ashigbey has advised road construction engineers to collaborate with the body to prevent the disruption of telecommunication and utility services during road construction.

    In a statement copied to Graphic Online, Ashigbey noted that disruption in the services of mobile telecommunication companies as well as other utility service providers was due to the activities of road construction engineers, other utility contractors and consultants.

    The statement mentioned that the NECT with “membership of all the agencies is notifying all Road and other Utilities Contactors/Supervising Engineers/Consultants the incessant destruction of utility (telecommunication, Electricity and Water) infrastructure within the road reservation and the need for swift action to correct the situation”.

    “In these trying times of the COVID 19 Pandemic, the demand for telecommunications, water and and services have reached a crescendo but the ability of the service providers to provide reliable service to the citizenry is being hampered by the activities of some road and utility contractors. It is essential that all utility lines especially that of the telecommunication, ECG and Ghana water industry is functioning at optimum capacity,” said Mr Ashigbey.

    “We entreat that you contact the NECT prior to the commencement of any road project to facilitate an inspection of the project with all utility agencies to locate or otherwise their infrastructure and also prepare for relocation”.

    Source: graphic.com.gh

  • Freda Prempeh inspects ongoing projects in constituency

    Member of Parliament for the Tano North Constituency, Freda Prempeh, together with leading members of the constituency on May 16, 2020, inspected the phase one of the ongoing Tepa Bomaa road construction.

    In an awe-inspiring joy, the inspection team consisting of the Contractor, Constituency Chairman, Secretary, Women Organizer and other leading members of the NPP were welcomed by the entire membership of the communities who were full of praise to the MP and her team for having their fair share of the national cake.

    The contractor assured the team that, phase one of the entire project is scheduled to be completed before December 2020 as promised.

    Hon. Freda Prempeh took the opportunity to interact and educated the community on the prevention of Coronavirus and also distributed nose masks to them.

    She enumerated some of the ongoing road construction and reshaping in the constituency as follows:

    – Tepa Bomaa

    – Terchire Adrobaa

    – Duayaw Nkwanta Bredi

    – Duayaw Nkwanta Adagyamamu

    – Bourkrukruwa

    – Yamfo town roads

    – Bomaa Dwenase Atonsu, now under cocoa roads will soon take off

    – Bomaa Duayawnkwanta

    Reshaping of the following roads have also been completed :

    – Subonpang Kwasoagya

    – Tanokrom Dwumakwai

    – Bomaa Onwe

    – Bomaa Nkwantabisa

    – Duayaw Nkwanta Campso stretch of roads

    Freda Prempeh thanked the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his good works especially in the construction of roads and health infrastructure. She also urged the electorates to vote massively for her and the president for continuous visible development.

     

    Source: Otchere Peprah Kwasi

  • Work begins on neglected Anlo-Afiadenyigba-Havedzi road

    Construction work has resumed on the 26-kilometre Anlo-Afiadenyigba-Havedzi road in the Keta Municipality of the Volta region, after several years of neglect.

    Residents say the project is long overdue since they have constantly struggled to use the poor road network.

    Municipal Chief Executive for Keta, Godwin Edudzi Yao Effah said the project which is to be completed in some months, will improve the economic activities in the municipality and also help prevent accidents.

    “We are glad to have the contractor back to site and we hope that work will complete close of the year to give relief to the residents,” Mr Effah said

    For drivers who ply the road, this development is a relief as they spend a lot of money on repair of their vehicles.

    “We always go to the mechanic shop because of the very bad nature of the road and several appeals to the authorities to have the roads constructed proved futile,” a frustrated driver told Joy News.

    In 2013, the then National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration began construction of the  Anlo-Afiadenyigba to Havedzi road with plans to extend it to Weta and other communities.

    But the project, which was awarded to Kapra URC Company Limited, stalled for about 8 years due to lack of funds.

    Earlier this year, residents in the area this year hit the streets in protest over the abandoned road following the death of a six-year-old boy or girl who was run over by a vehicle.

    Work has already begun earnestly on culverts to provide easy access to motorists first on the 11-km Afiadenyigba-Havedzi stretch.

    Project Manager, Torgbui Kpemba III said the company is committed complete it as soon as possible.

    “We hope to finish the two-phase projects within 12 months and we promise to deliver on our promise by giving residents quality job,” he said.

     

    Source: myjoyonlime 

  • Roads Minister applauds local contractors for quality of work

    The Roads and Highways Minister, Kwasi Amoako-Atta, has lauded local road contractors for their quality of work delivery so far as he inspected projects in the Ashanti Region.

    He said if they continued their good work, government was ready to support and build their capacity in order to prepare them for prospective international contracts.

    “I am impressed with the contractors, they have done a good job so far and we can all see the quality of work done, I am not surprised because they are among the best local contractors in the country,” Mr Amoako-Atta noted.

    However the Minister was dissatisfied with the work done at Konongo-Praaso road where he said government was not going to accept the work until the contractor improved on it.

    He used the occasion to advise the contractors to develop their capacity as government was bent on improving their capabilities to be internationally recognised road contractors.

    According to the Minister, government would always want value for money and so would not tolerate any shoddy work from contractors.

    The Minister was interacting with the media on the second day of a working tour in some parts of the Ashanti Region.

    Among the inspected projects were the ongoing Anwiaa Nkwanta-Obuasi road, the 20km Obuasi inner town roads, Konongo town roads, and some deplorable roads and drainages in Ahodwo.

    Meanwhile at Obuasi, he assured that, government was committed to improving the standard of development in the gold mining town as the roads in the town deserved a facelift.

    The Obuasi inner town road project awarded to Justmoh Constructions was at 36. 62 per cent progress and it is expected to be completed on March 16, 2022.

    Source: ghanaiantimes.com.gh

  • Four new interchanges to be constructed in Kumasi Amoako Atta

    The Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako Atta, has said the government is set to build four new standard interchanges in Kumasi to drastically reduce vehicular traffic in the Ashanti regional capital.

    The project according to the minister will take place at Suame Roundabout, Anloga junction (Oforikrom), Bekwai roundabout and airport roundabout.

    Briefing the media in Kumasi ahead of the Ministry of Roads and Highways tour of the Ashanti Region, the minister disclosed, the technical team from the ministry is almost done with a primary feasibility study into the project.

    He disclosed that government has 156 different road projects currently ongoing in the Region. Adding that ring road will be constructed to ease movement for people travelling from Accra to the North and vice versa, who do not have anything to do in Kumasi.

    He enlisted the projects “the following bypasses shall be undertaken as a measure of creating additional travel option for commuters and also improving the capacity of the network. This is for completion of the inner ring road of Kumasi. This is the completion of the inner ring road between timber garden through ahodwo, santease roundabout and onto the sofo line interchange. We also have what we call Kumasi after the ring road. Feasibility studies for the Kumasi after ring road is currently ongoing.”

    “Arrangements are being discussed to construct the section of the ring road between Ejisu on the N6 and Opimso on the N10. And this is a very important project of the government and it will substantially reduce traffic in Kumasi.”

    He added “so all those travelling from Accra to the northern part of the country and vice versa who do not have anything to do in Kumasi. Will have to use these after ring roads.156 different road projects are currently going on the Ashanti region and are being undertaken by strong major contractors.”

    Source: Starr FM

  • Construction of Police Hospital inner roads begins

    The Minister of Roads and Highways, Mr Kwasi Amoako-Atta, on Tuesday, 21 April 2020, visited the Police Hospital as work commenced on the hospital’s inner roads.

    When done, the roads will facilitate smooth movement and access to various services at the hospital to ensure a conducive environment for healthcare delivery.

    Mr Amoako-Atta indicated that the works will include road marking and asphalting.

    The Director-General, Services, COP Mr George Alex Mensah, on behalf of the Police Administration, expressed gratitude to the government for the initiative while the Medical Director, DCOP D. Marian Tetteh Korboe, also expressed the gratitude of the hospital staff to the ministry for the gesture.

     

    Source: classfmonline.com

  • My constituents insult me because of poor road network MP confesses

    Member of Parliament for Asane Akroso Manso in the Eastern region, George Kwame Aboagye has revealed how he has been subjected to severe verbal attacks by his constituents due to the poor road network there.

    But he understands their plight because he believes the people deserve better.

    “Even my family members have not been spared of these insults but I have urged them to remain calm since I owe the constituents the responsibility to get the roads fixed by lobbying through the Ministry of Roads and Highways,” he said.

    The MP who is popularly known as Oluwa was quick to add that the move by the people demonstrates their desire for results, and not necessarily that they dislike him.

    George Kwame Aboagye revealed this in an interview with Nana Yaw Opare (Wofa) host of Mantam Mpuntuo show on Onua FM, admitting that most of the road networks in the area are dilapidated.

    The situation, he said, has negatively affected the livelihood, health and well-being of people there for years.

    Touching on what he has done so far concerning the situation, the legislator revealed that about 80% of roads in the area have been awarded and contractors are currently on location.

    For instance, he noted, together with the Asane Manso Akroso District Chief Executive Alex Inkoom, George Kwame Aboagye on April 21 cut sod for the construction of a 19.5 kilometers from Akyem Manso to Osenase under the cocoa roads project.

    He said the project is a fulfillment of a campaign promise made by President Akufo-Addo during the 2016 elections campaign.

    He was optimistic the contractors will complete the project before end of this year to enhance economic activities.

    George Kwame Aboagye assured residents of Asane Akroso Manso that the Akufo-Addo-led administration will not disappoint them.

    Source: 3news.com

  • Mast collapses on building at Baatsona, Spintex road

    A mast sited on the Management Development and Productivity Institute(MDPI) building at Baatsonaa, Spintex has collapsed on a building in that enclave.

    Sources reveal that the mast belongs to SuperTech Limited. Information gathered within the neighbourhood indicates that it collapsed due to lack of regular maintenance.

    Nii Gontein Teiko Tsuru II, Chief of the Akononku Divisional Area, who lives in the vicinity revealed that “fortunately, no casualties were recorded but the destruction of property cannot be disregarded.”

    In his submission, Nii Adotey Gbosange, Nungua Stool Secretary revealed that the land in question was acquired by the then Head of State, General Kutu Acheampong for the establishment of the MDPI administrative building and classrooms in the year 1974.

    “In the year 1974, the government acquired a parcel of land (156.184) acres for MDPI at Baatsona from the then Nungua Chief Nii Odai Ayiku IV.

    The MDPI Senior Officials were led by the wife of the late Chief to meet the Chief and an agreement was made to that effect for the lease of the land. Thereafter, a Surveyor from the Lands and Surveys department was brought in to work on the land at the time for the MDPI, including the land where the Texpo Market is situated currently.

    In 1975, the government took over on behalf of the MDPI for the necessary agreement with the Nungua Stool since the body was under the government.

    To that effect, the arrangement was then changed from leasehold to compulsory acquisition by the Government of Ghana.

    There were about ten peasant farmers who were farming on the land for so long on parts of the land which was to be acquired.

    This made them owners since they were indigenes of Nungua.

    Compensation was awarded to eight families among the farmers. The other two families did not accept.

    After the Revolution in 1979, developments halted on the land in question and encroachers took over the land to build their residences. The purpose of the building has been neglected. Some telecom institutions have their mast on building.

    “It is therefore important that Government acts promptly and decisively about what will be made of the building, albeit forming a committee to look into the matter to resolve it since May 2017.

    The place has become a threat to life and property of citizens who live in the neighborhood”.

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • Eyes on the Ground: Work resumes on 10-year-old drainage system at Sakaman during lockdown

    In April 2010, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly under the leadership of Oko Vanderpuye razed down over twenty houses at Sakaman in the Ablekuma North District.

    The AMA explained that, with the onset of rains in the following months, the demolition was necessary to allow it construct a huge drainage system for the area.

    The cries and protest of the citizen went unheard as the AMA demolished houses it claimed were on waterways.

    The AMA subsequently awarded the construction of drainage and work quickly began.

    After some remarkable progress at the initial stages, work stalled and abandoned with the explanation to the residents some of whom had to use alternative routes to access their homes.

    Ten years and three presidents on from when the demolition exercise was undertaken, and the drainage system is yet to be completed.

    Interesting to note that make-shift structures for the workers have now been turned into houses with some of them settling in the community.

    Earlier this year, residents received the good news as work resumed on the facility.

    Work has been progressing quite well as workers are ever-present on the site.

    Following the coronavirus pandemic, the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo ordered a lockdown of some parts of Accra and Ablekuma Municipality under which Sakaman falls.

    The president in his address, stressed on the fact that only providers of essential services would be permitted to work with construction workers inclusive.

    A visit to the site Friday morning showed workers busily going about their duties and working tirelessly to complete the project before the rainy season.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Inner roads of hospitals and courts to be fixed Roads Minister

    The Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako Attah, has said that all deplorable inner roads of major hospitals in the country are scheduled to be fixed.

    The intended road facelift is expected to cover all public hospitals and will begin with the Korle-bu Teaching Hospital.

    Speaking to Citi News, the Minister indicated that work has already started.

    “The machines are here and what I am saying is that the project takes immediate effect. We have brought equipment and the company going to do it is Jasmo construction and all the potholes are going to be patched and fixed to make it smooth and stabilize the ground to be able to receive the asphalt.”

    Mr. Amoako Attah also indicated that the stretches within the premises of the Supreme Court and other courts across the country will be fixed.

    “We are going to work on the Supreme Court premises. This is a request we received from the Chief Justice that the place has to be worked on. And it may not end here, we will continue to liaise with his Lordship the Chief Justice and we shall be looking at the other court premises in the Regions,” he added.

    Year of Roads

    The Finance Minister in delivering the 2020 budget statement stressed a focus on fixing roads across the country in 2020 and beyond having identified what he described as “critical roads” across each of the 16 regions in the country.

    Agitations over poor road network

    The deplorable state of roads in parts of the country had become a challenge to many in Ghana.

    Recently, most residents who have been outraged by poor roads have resorted to series of protests to pile pressure on authorities to get their roads fixed.

    They have been burning tyres and wielding placards with varied inscriptions to have their roads which are full of potholes and bumps fixed.

     

    Source: citinewsroomÂ