Sod‑Cutting Marks Start of 144‑Kilometre Road Reconstruction in Asante Akim North

Sod‑Cutting Marks Start of 144‑Kilometre Road Reconstruction in Asante Akim North

From Ernest Best Anane, Agogo/Ash

In a colourful sod‑cutting ceremony on Thursday, the Asante Akim North Municipal Assembly launched the reconstruction of a 144‑kilometre stretch of major roads linking Agogo, Ananekrom and Dome under the government’s “Big Push” programme.

Madam Sarah Amoakoa, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Madam Sarah Amoakoa told guests that the municipality was honoured to be among the four beneficiary assemblies selected for Phase One and Phase Two of the Big Push initiative. “Any good thing that happens in Asante Akim North is always an NDC legacy,” she said, urging the government to extend similar attention to pressing issues such as education and unemployment.

The road project, which will include four‑lane sections, bridges and drainage works, is expected to be completed within two years using funds from the Consolidated Fund. Contractors appointed for the work are Munzir Naasr‑Deen, Eng. Hasford Judge Quartey of Dilqui’s International Ltd., and Huan Yuri of Green House Ltd.

Member of Parliament for the constituency, Ohene Kwame Frimping, praised the NDC administration for prioritising the needs of Asante Akim North. “One year into my term has been remarkable compared with the eight years of my predecessor,” he said, noting that the new road network will relieve farmers who have been forced to pay exorbitant transport charges to bring produce to market.

Mr. Frimping also highlighted a series of complementary projects already underway: the provision of 3,000 pieces of furniture to senior high schools, the installation of Mankala and Pataban communication networks, and plans for a tomato‑processing factory and a watermelon‑seed distribution programme to support agricultural youth. He added that the MP’s office is lobbying the Health Ministry for additional clinics, the Interior Ministry for new police stations in Abrewapon and Ananekrom, and the Agriculture Ministry for a tomato factory.

Nana Kwame Nti, Krontihene of Agogo, expressed gratitude on behalf of the traditional authorities, saying the road project “is an honour to Agogo and its surrounding communities, a share of the national cake that reflects President Mahama’s promise to deliver development.” He urged contractors to deliver quality work on time and warned that shoddy construction would not be tolerated.

The ceremony was attended by regional officials, including Eng. Agnes Afifua, Regional Manager of Feeder Roads, as well as representatives of the contracting firms, health inspectors, environmental officers and youth groups from the catchment areas.

With the sod officially turned, the assembly and its partners now look to a two‑year timeline that promises improved access, enhanced agricultural productivity and broader socio‑economic opportunities for the people of Asante Akim North.