Choicenewsonline Your Choice Is Here
In a determined effort to save lives and improve accessibility, residents of Manso Tontokrom in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, led by their Assembly Member and Unit Committee Chairman, have organized a communal labour exercise to reshape the dangerous Akotokore Mountain Road. The road, which has been neglected for years, has become a death trap, with multiple accidents and fatalities recorded.
The Akotokore Mountain Road is a crucial route that connects Manso Tontokrom to other parts of the Amansie South District. However, erosion, deep potholes, and the absence of maintenance have made it nearly impassable, affecting trade, transportation, and emergency services.
A Community’s Bold Initiative
Frustrated by the lack of government action, the community mobilized manpower and resources to undertake self-led road rehabilitation. Armed with shovels, pickaxes, and wheelbarrows, residents worked tirelessly to fill potholes, level rough surfaces, and create a safer path for motorists and pedestrians.
Unit Committee Chairman, Mr. Kwabena Animonyam, popularly known as Okomfour Kwaadae, expressed deep concern over the dire state of the road.
“We have seen too many accidents, and we cannot wait for more lives to be lost. That is why we have come together to fix it ourselves. But we need proper construction, and only the government can provide that,” he stated.
The Assembly Member for the area, Hon. [Insert Name], emphasized that while the community’s effort is commendable, it is only a temporary fix.
“This communal labour is a sign of our desperation. We are doing our best, but the government must act now. The road needs professional engineering and proper construction to prevent further tragedies,” he urged.
Residents Share Their Struggles
Several residents spoke about the severe impact of the bad road on their daily lives.
Kwame Boakye, a commercial driver, recalled a recent accident that resulted in fatalities.
“I have been driving on this road for over a decade, and it keeps getting worse. Just last year, two people lost their lives when a vehicle overturned. If nothing is done, more people will die,” he lamented.
Madam Akosua Mensah, a trader, highlighted the economic burden caused by the poor road conditions.
“Farmers and traders depend on this road to transport goods, but the terrible condition leads to losses. Sometimes, by the time we reach the market, our produce is damaged,” she explained.
A Plea for Government Support
The people of Manso Tontokrom are appealing to the Amansie South District Assembly, the Ministry of Roads and Highways, and the government to urgently intervene and reconstruct the Akotokore Mountain Road. They argue that a well-constructed road will enhance safety, boost economic activities, and improve transportation in the area.
Next Steps
Local leaders have vowed to keep engaging government agencies until the road is fixed. They have also called on their Member of Parliament to push for funding and prioritize the road’s rehabilitation.
Despite the challenges, the community remains hopeful that their collective effort will draw attention and lead to a permanent solution before another tragedy occurs.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie
