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Residents of Essienkyem in the Ahafo South East District of the Ashanti Region, including teachers and health workers, have raised an urgent appeal to the government and relevant authorities for the provision of essential amenities such as electricity, good roads, and reliable telecommunications networks.
According to residents, the absence of these basic infrastructure facilities has created significant challenges in their daily lives and is hindering the development of the community. Teachers and health workers, who play critical roles in providing education and healthcare services to the community, are among those most affected by the lack of amenities.
*Challenges in Education and Healthcare*
Teachers at the Essienkyem D/A primary school lamented the lack of electricity, which has negatively impacted teaching and learning. Without power, they are unable to use technological tools such as computers, projectors, and other educational resources that could enhance students’ understanding. Additionally, the lack of electricity makes it difficult for students to study after dark, further affecting academic performance.
“We are really struggling here. Teaching has become more difficult because we cannot use the modern teaching aids that are available to other schools. Our students are at a disadvantage,” said one teacher, who wished to remain anonymous.
Health workers at the Essienkyem Community Health Centre are equally concerned. They emphasized that the absence of electricity limits their ability to offer critical services, especially during emergencies. Health workers often rely on alternative means, such as rechargeable lamps, to attend to patients at night.
“At night, we rely on torchlights and rechargeable lamps to provide care. Imagine a situation where we have to deliver a baby under such conditions or handle an emergency surgery. It’s risky and unacceptable in this day and age,” a health worker explained.
*Poor Road Network*
The deplorable state of the road leading to Essienkyem has also become a major concern. The unmotorable nature of the road makes it difficult for residents to access healthcare, attend school, and engage in economic activities. Farmers in the area, who rely on the road to transport their produce to nearby markets, have expressed frustration over their inability to sell their goods in a timely manner, resulting in financial losses.
“Our road is terrible, especially during the rainy season. Cars can’t come in, and we have to walk long distances just to get to town. When someone is seriously ill, it becomes a life-threatening situation because we can’t reach the nearest hospital in time,” one resident said.
*Telecommunications Woes*
Another pressing concern is the lack of telecommunications networks in the area. Residents struggle with making phone calls and accessing the internet, further isolating them from the rest of the region and the country. Teachers and students are unable to access online educational materials, while health workers find it difficult to communicate with other healthcare facilities for assistance in case of emergencies.
“Sometimes we need to consult specialists in other towns or call for referrals, but we have no means of doing so because of the poor network. It’s frustrating and puts lives at risk,” said a nurse at the health centre.
*Appeal to Authorities*
The chiefs and elders of Essienkyem, together with teachers, health workers, and residents, are appealing to the government, the District Assembly, and telecommunication companies to come to their aid. They are calling for the immediate provision of electricity, improvement of the road network, and the installation of reliable telecommunications infrastructure.
“Essienkyem is a growing community, and we deserve to have access to these basic amenities. We hope the government will listen to our plea and act swiftly to improve our living conditions,” a community leader stated.
The residents remain hopeful that their calls for support will be answered soon to ensure the socio-economic development of their community.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie (OTEC FM)
