The initiative, part of the broader District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), has brought much-needed infrastructure to an area that has long suffered from poor road conditions.

For years, residents of Ofosu-Battor faced daily challenges due to the dilapidated state of the road connecting the community.

The rough terrain made transportation difficult, affecting access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets.

Many residents expressed their frustration, feeling neglected and overlooked by authorities.

However, the construction of the road by the Nkwanta South Assembly under the DRIP initiative has sparked a wave of optimism and gratitude among the community.

The new road not only enhances connectivity but also opens up opportunities for economic growth.

Local businesses are expected to thrive as transportation becomes more sufficient, allowing for easier movement of goods and services.

Residents are hopeful that this development will attract more investment to the area, ultimately improving their quality of life.

In light of this positive change, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Felix Owusu-Gyimah, has urged the community members to recognize the importance of supporting the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the coming elections.

He noted that, continued investment in infrastructure is crucial for the area’s development and that the NPP has demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of Ghanaians.

The MCE therefore urged the people in the area to vote massively for Dr Alhaji Bawumia and the NPP parliamentary Hajia Sherifa Sekyere Tijani on 7 December for more infrastructure development.

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The DRIP ensured the provision of earth-moving machines to all districts to improve road projects, especially feeder and access roads, as they await permanent construction.

Addressing stakeholders of Ahafo Ano South during his campaign visit on Tuesday, Dr. Bawumia said the DRIP was instituted due to the government’s concern and commitment to inclusive road development across the country.

“We realized that in so many districts, the roads were bad, so we decided to send these machines to all districts to help get these roads in shape before major contractors come on them,” Dr. Bawumia said.

“That’s why we decided to buy for every district a roller, excavator, grader, concrete mixer, tipper truck, etc. We have given these to every district in Ghana.

“Work has already started in the districts, and I believe it will help a lot to address these road challenges. Your roads, and generally roads in Ghana, are very dear to me, and I assure you that as President, I will make it a priority.”

The DRIP initiative, which has empowered the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in road improvement and maintenance, has been widely hailed across the country as a key intervention.

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Awarded in 2012 by the late former President Evans Atta Mills’ administration, the project has faced numerous delays and neglect, leading the road into a state of disrepair that has hindered economic activities and posed risks for motorists.

For years, the Nkwanta-Kpasa road has been characterized by potholes, erosion, and inadequate drainage systems, making it perilous and time-consuming.

In a significant development to save drivers and commuters, the long-neglected road is undergoing a major transformation, thanks to the District Road Improvement Program (DRIP).

Recognizing the pressing need for improvement, MCE for Nkwanta South Felix Owusu-Gyimah, took decisive action to rehabilitate the road to renewed hope for travelers and drivers to reduce travel times and enhance access to essential services.

The (DRIP) initiative aims to rehabilitate and upgrade key road networks within the municipality, with the Nkwanta-Kpasa road being a top most priority.

A visit on the road by Adom News Obrempongba Owusu confirmed the impact of the project is already being felt as commuters and drivers

Speaking with Adom News, the MCE, Felix Owusu Gyimah stressed the importance of fixing portion of Nkwanta-Kpasa road in facility trade, improving access to healthcare and enhance opportunities for surrounding communities.

According to him, the Nkwanta-Kpasa road of the Eastern Corridor is not just a pathway but a lifeline for people and government and the assembly are committed to ensuring that it receives the attention it deserves.

He noted that the poor state of the road do not only hampered the movement of goods and services but also affected the overall economic development of the tween-assemblies.

The MCE urged residents to support the NPP government and vote for Dr Alhaji Mamadu Bawumia and the parliamentary candidate Hajia Sherifa Sekyere Tijani on December 7.

The Oti Regional DRIP Coordinator, Festus Okpora echoed the sentiments, highlighting the project potential impact.

This he said, the DRIP initiative spearheaded by the NPP government aims to address road infrastructure in vulnerable area, and the Nkwanta-Kpasa road is a key focus.

He noted that with funding and technical support from JA Plantpool Oti Region is set to witness significant roads improvement.

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The DRIP initiative aims to equip Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) with the tools and resources needed to repair and maintain roads in their areas.

According to the residents, the initiative has led to significant improvements in road infrastructure within the municipality, giving many areas a much-needed facelift.

In an interview with Adom News correspondent Isaac Amoako, the residents expressed optimism that the days of navigating bad roads in the area are coming to an end, thanks to the DRIP initiative.

They also commended their Member of Parliament, Andy Appiah Kubi, for his role in ensuring the progress of the project.

They highlighted his contribution in fueling the equipment used to work on the inner roads in the Amantena zone, which has positively impacted their daily commute.

The clash erupted on Monday during the commissioning of the DRIP equipment by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo which provided road materials and vehicles to each constituency.

As the party supporters were hurling objects and stones at each other, an NDC member was reportedly hit with a carjack on the ear.

In an interview with Adom News, the Gomoa West DCE who doubles as the NPP Parliamentary candidate, Bismarck Nkum said the President of Gomoa Akyempim and Gomoa Assin Traditional Councils were seated for the event when the chaos broke out.

Mr Nkum alleged that the incumbent MP, Richard Mensah Gyan and some NDC member stormed the venue, wielding gun, chains and cutlasses.

This led to a physical confrontation, resulting in the injury.

However, Mr Gyan has denied the allegation of pulling a gun at the event.

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The DRIP initiative seeks to provide Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) with the necessary equipment and resources to repair and maintain roads in their jurisdictions.

This aligns with the government’s broader goal of decentralization, giving local authorities the tools to drive impactful change.

However, while speaking at the Bono Regional House of Chiefs during his campaign tour, Mahama criticised the programme as being rushed to win political favour.

He pointed out logistical issues, including improper transportation of equipment and the lack of skilled operators, leaving some of the machines unused.

“The DRIP initiative was not well thought-through and this is evident in a video I saw on how the equipment was transported to the various localities.

“The government should have gotten pay-loaders to ensure an appropriate transportation of the equipment. Apart from that, some of the machines have been left unused because there are no skilled workers to operate them” Mr. Mahama noted.

Background

On Wednesday, July 31, President Akufo-Addo officially launched the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) and inaugurated the equipment at the Black Star Square in Accra.

This initiative, which aims to strengthen the country’s road infrastructure, represents a significant step in the government’s efforts to decentralize development and enhance the well-being of Ghanaians.

In his speech, President Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of road infrastructure for both economic and social progress.

“Roads connect communities, boost trade, provide access to education and healthcare, and ultimately elevate the quality of life for citizens,” he said.

Although progress has been made, the President acknowledged that many district roads are still in poor condition, hindering economic growth and development.

DRIP consists of 2,240 pieces of essential equipment, such as motor graders, backhoes, rollers, bulldozers, and concrete mixers, all intended to support the nationwide enhancement of road networks.

Source: Myjoyonline.com

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Speaking at the launch of the road construction equipment in Dambai, he revealed that the “One District per set of construction equipment” was a special purpose vehicle initiated by the President aimed at decentralising road infrastructure in all metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies (MMDAs) across the country.

“The programme is expected to create direct jobs, stimulate local economic development and reduce post-harvest losses since farmers will have improved roads to transport their farm produce to the market and improve general service delivery across the country”, he indicated.

“Government is committed to ensuring equitable distribution of the national cake with effective decentralization mechanisms to benefit every Ghanaian without recourse to the social, economic or political background as well as their geographical location,” he added.

Mr Machator noted that despite the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak, which significantly impacted the economy, the government has remained steadfast in its efforts to revive the economy.

To mitigate the hardship faced by citizens, he said the government has initiated several measures to get the economy back on track, stressing that each district in the region will receive a fleet of heavy equipment, including dump truck, backhoe, concrete mixer, roller, bulldozer and motor grader

The Technical Manager of J.A Plant Pool Limited, Mr. Eric Anobaah, stated that his company, in collaboration with their Chinese partners, LiuGong, was providing technical support for the DRIP.

He highlighted that a key aspect of this support was a knowledge transfer program, which will train Ghanaian technicians, including students from technical institutions, in the proper operation and maintenance of the equipment.

He mentioned that DRIP will provide employment opportunities to over 5,000 individuals including drivers, operators, mechanics, welders, sprayers, janitors among others.

Mr. Anobaah further disclosed that maintenance facilities will be established to provide regular upkeep and servicing of the machines, ensuring they remain in optimal condition and are always ready for use.

This proactive maintenance approach, he explained, will help prevent equipment downtime, extend the lifespan of the machines, and guarantee their continued effectiveness in supporting the DRIP project’s objectives.

Source: Adomonline

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At the launch ceremony held at the Regional Coordinating Council in Kumasi on Friday, August 23, 2024, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Simon Osei-Mensah, emphasised the project’s significance in boosting the region’s economy.

“Since His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo took office, we’ve witnessed unprecedented road construction across the country. DRIP will further accelerate this progress, focusing on rural areas and raw material sources,” he said.

On display at the ceremony were various pieces of equipment, including backhoes, tipper trucks, and motor graders, which will be distributed to districts across the region.

He indicated that the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council will house the equipment for effective supervision and maintenance.

Mr Osei-Mensah urged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to ensure the equipment’s proper use and maintenance.

“Let’s make the most of this opportunity to transform our rural communities and stimulate economic growth,” he urged.

He explained that the DRIP project aligns with the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and promoting economic development in rural areas.

He added that the region is poised to benefit significantly from this initiative, which will pave the way for increased access to markets, improved livelihoods, and a brighter future.

According to him, the project will create jobs, reduce transportation costs, and increase the region’s competitiveness.

“We have specialized personnel on hand to repair any faulty equipment, so there’s no need to take them to just any mechanic. Each piece of equipment is fitted with built-in trackers to monitor their use. If anyone attempts to use them for private purposes, such as illegal mining, they will be caught and held accountable. There will be strict supervision—we will not simply distribute the equipment and sit back,” he assured.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Hon. Samuel Pyne, commended the NPP government for its efforts in improving road networks in the country.

He noted that despite the government’s impressive record in road construction, more needed to be done to address the challenges posed by poor road networks.

He highlighted the impact of bad roads on food prices, healthcare, and the economy, citing examples of delayed ambulance services resulting in deaths or miscarriages.

Furthermore, Hon. Pyne praised the government’s commitment to implementing policies to improve road networks and thanked JA Plant Pool and the Jospong Group for their collaboration on the DRIP project.

The Chief of Asante Asiakwa, Obrempong Asiakwa Agyeman Agyei, who was the Chairman for the occasion applauded Hon. Osei-Mensah, for his dedication and efforts to transforming the region’s road network.

He called that the DRIP project was originally envisioned by former President J.A. Kufuor but was not implemented due to circumstances.

He expressed gratitude that the project has finally been launched under the current government.

Obrempong Asiakwa Agyeman Agyei emphasised that the equipment provided under the DRIP project was government property, intended solely for government projects and not for personal use, urging the district leaders to ensure effective utilisation of the machines to achieve the government’s objectives.

He also appealed to the minister for strict supervision to guarantee the efficient use of the equipment, saying,

“Let us take a moment to applaud our Regional Minister for his dedication and efforts to improve the Ashanti community. Today marks a significant event in the transformation of our road network,” he said.