President John Dramani Mahama’s renewed promise to construct a bridge across the Afram River—from Adawso to Ekye Amanfrom—has reignited both hope and scepticism among residents of the Kwawu Afram Plains.
The latest pledge, made during his campaign tour, marks the second time Mr. Mahama has committed to the project, with the first dating back to his presidency between 2013 and 2017. That earlier promise, however, went unfulfilled—much like similar assurances given by former Presidents Jerry John Rawlings and John Agyekum Kufuor.
The proposed 3.6-kilometre bridge is expected to span Afram Lake, a man-made water body formed in the 1960s by the damming of the Volta River. The bridge is being described as a game-changing infrastructure project with the potential to transform the Afram Plains into Ghana’s agricultural powerhouse.
Development experts believe the bridge will serve as a critical part of a 100-kilometre road network linking the Eastern, Asante, and Bono regions, significantly enhancing access, trade, and connectivity.
Public reaction to the renewed promise remains mixed. While some residents who spoke to Adom News expressed optimism, viewing the re-commitment as a sign of genuine intent, others remain doubtful, citing a long history of unfulfilled presidential pledges.
Amid the divided sentiments, the District Chief Executive for Kwawu Afram Plains South, Moses Tangmee, has assured residents that the Mahama-led NDC has secured funding to finally deliver the bridge. He emphasized the project’s potential to spur economic growth, promote regional integration, and boost incomes through expanded agricultural production and trade.
Mr. Tangmee further alleged that the previous NPP administration misappropriated funds originally earmarked for the bridge, diverting them to another project. He stressed that should the NDC return to power, it would not only complete the bridge but also investigate and prosecute those involved in the alleged misapplication of funds.
Source: Akwasi Dwamena
