Agona, Western Region
The critical road network connecting Agona Roundabout to the coastal town of Dixcove has deteriorated beyond recognition, causing serious concern among residents, transport operators, traders, and local authorities. What was once a vital link between several inland communities and the bustling fishing and tourism hub of Dixcove has now become nearly impassable, threatening livelihoods and economic activity in the region.
The road, which spans several kilometers through rural and semi-urban communities, is now riddled with deep potholes, exposed gravel, severe erosion, and large stretches of mud during the rainy season. Several sections have completely collapsed, making it impossible for vehicles to pass without damage or delay.
Transport Operators Bear the Brunt
Commercial drivers and public transport operators have been the most directly affected. Many have had to cut down their trips, increase fares, or avoid the route entirely.
“This road is no longer safe. We put our lives and our vehicles at risk,” said Kwesi Mensah, a commercial driver who has plied the Agona-Dixcove route for over a decade. “Just last week, my bus got stuck in the mud for hours. It cost me a whole day’s income and a visit to the mechanic.”
Another driver, Ebo Asiedu, explained how the deteriorating road is increasing maintenance costs. “We change our shock absorbers and tires more frequently now. It’s not sustainable. If something is not done soon, we may have to abandon the route entirely.”
Economic Activities in Jeopardy
The poor state of the road is not only affecting transport but also having a significant impact on local economic activities. Traders and market women who depend on the route to transport goods are lamenting the rising cost of doing business.
“I transport fish and smoked seafood from Dixcove to the Agona market twice a week,” said Maame Abena, a fish trader. “Now I spend twice as much on transport, and sometimes my goods go bad before they reach the market. It’s affecting our profits and discouraging buyers.”
Farmers in nearby communities also report losses due to delays in getting their produce to market. “We cultivate cassava and plantain, but the road is so bad that trucks won’t come here anymore,” said Kweku Biney, a farmer in a village near Abura. “We are watching our food rot while people in the cities complain about high prices.”
Residents Express Frustration and Anger
Frustrated residents have staged multiple community meetings and written petitions to the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly and the Ghana Highway Authority, but they say their concerns have fallen on deaf ears.
“We’ve made countless complaints. We’ve even used our own resources to patch parts of the road in the past,” said Ama Eshun, a community leader in Dixcove. “We feel abandoned. This road is essential to our survival — to our health, our businesses, our children’s education. We need urgent help.”
Health and Safety Risks Mounting
Healthcare professionals also warn that the road’s condition is having life-threatening consequences. Nurse Janet Mensimah, who works at a clinic along the route, said, “Ambulances and emergency vehicles can’t reach us in time. Women in labor and accident victims are suffering because of delays. It’s heartbreaking.”
School officials in the area have also expressed concern. “Students walk long distances in dangerous conditions just to get to school,” said Mr. Kobina Aidoo, a teacher at a junior high school in the area. “Attendance is dropping, and children are falling behind.”
Calls for Immediate Government Action
Community members are calling on the government to treat the issue as a matter of national urgency. They are appealing directly to the Minister of Roads and Highways and the President to prioritize the rehabilitation of the road in the 2025 budget and infrastructure plans.
“We are not asking for luxury. We just want a motorable road so we can live our lives and support our families,” said Esi Nyamekye, a youth activist. “Development is impossible without good roads. The time for action is now.”
Attempts to reach officials from the Ghana Highway Authority and the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly for a response have not been successful as of the time of publication.
Residents say they are prepared to take further action — including peaceful protests — if their cries continue to be ignored.
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