A tense and volatile situation unfolded in Suame Magazine in the Ashanti Region on Tuesday as aggrieved artisans and residents took to the streets to protest the prolonged delay of the Suame Interchange project, blocking major roads and setting lorry tyres ablaze in frustration.
The demonstrators, largely made up of traders, mechanics, and workers within the bustling industrial enclave, converged on the Suame Post Office Road, bringing traffic to a standstill. Their action highlighted growing anger over what they described as years of neglect and the apparent abandonment of the interchange project.
According to the protesters, the ongoing works on the interchange—initially aimed at addressing chronic traffic congestion and improving road infrastructure in the area—have stalled without clear communication from the contractor or relevant authorities. They alleged that Rengo Construction Company, responsible for the project, has deserted the site, leaving behind deep excavations, exposed road surfaces, and worsening dust pollution.
Speaking to media in an interview, some of the demonstrators expressed deep concern over the deteriorating conditions, noting that the uncompleted works have turned the area into a hazardous environment for both workers and commuters.
The Suame Interchange project, which was officially announced in 2022 and began initial construction in 2023, was expected to significantly ease congestion in one of West Africa’s largest automotive spare parts hubs. However, progress has since slowed, with reports pointing to funding challenges and coordination issues among stakeholders as key setbacks.
For many residents and traders, the stalled project has become a daily burden. They lament that persistent dust from the construction site is affecting their health, damaging goods, and discouraging customers from patronizing businesses in the area.
“We are suffering. The dust is too much. Our shops are covered every day, and customers can’t come here,” one visibly frustrated worker lamented during the protest.
The demonstration also disrupted vehicular movement, with motorists forced to divert to alternative routes as protesters blocked key access roads. The burning of tyres further intensified the scene, sending thick smoke into the air and heightening the already tense situation.
The protesters are demanding urgent intervention from government and relevant authorities to ensure the immediate resumption and completion of the interchange project. They warned that failure to address their concerns could lead to further demonstrations.
Suame Magazine, a key commercial hub in Kumasi, plays a vital role in Ghana’s automotive and spare parts industry, attracting thousands of traders and customers daily. Residents insist that completing the interchange will not only ease traffic congestion but also improve safety, environmental conditions, and economic activity in the area.
As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official response from the authorities regarding the protest. Security personnel were, however, present at the scene to maintain order as the situation gradually stabilized. The residents remain resolute in their demand for swift and decisive action to bring relief to the area.
