Before the year is over, the National Democratic Congress's Kojo Danquah, Regional Communications Officer, has urged the government to fix the terrible road system, particularly in the areas in the Eastern Region that grow cocoa.
At a press conference on August 14, Mr. Danquah said that the area's inadequate road system is having a big influence on people's socioeconomic conditions.
“The economic toll on local businesses is equally severe. Many stores and shops have been forced to close down due to the relentless dust and debris that have resulted from the deteriorated road conditions.
The accumulation of dust has damaged goods and created an unhealthy environment for both employees and customers. Shops that once thrived are now shut, unable to cope with the adverse effects of the failing infrastructure. This has led to a reduction in local economic activity and employment opportunities, compounding the already
dire situation in our region,” he lamented.
Mr. Danquah emphasized that their research suggests that the drop in cocoa production is partly due to the poor condition of the road network in areas that grow cocoa.
“Poor state of the entire road network in the region has precipitated a tragic collapse in cocoa production, with Eastern Region’s output plummeting from an unprecedented 100,000 metric tons in 2016 to a dismal 24,000 metric tons as we speak. Farmers, who depend on these roads to transport their precious cocoa beans, are left with their crops rotting away in the farms due to the road’s dire condition.
The journey from farms to towns is fraught with peril, as the damaged roads cause significant spoilage and damage during transit. Again, Farmers, who are the backbone of our local economy, are struggling,” he stated.
He pledged that under John Dramani Mahama's leadership, the NDC would prioritize advancing road development in both urban and rural areas, making sure that no community in the Eastern Region is left behind.
“The NDC also plans to revitalize the Cocoa Roads Project, ensuring that neglected roads are rehabilitated, and new ones constructed to facilitate efficient transport of agricultural goods. Additionally, the Rural Road Improvement Program will prioritize the maintenance and upgrading of roads in remote and underserved areas, promoting equitable development across the region.
“These projects are designed to address the current infrastructure deficiencies, reduce travel times, support economic activities, and improve overall quality of life for residents. With a clear and actionable roadmap, the NDC and President Mahama are committed to delivering robust infrastructure solutions that will drive sustainable growth,” Mr. Danquah stated.
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