The Sipim of Manya-Aklomuase in the Lower Manya Krobo Traditional Area of the Eastern Region, Narh Tekpetey II, has expressed concern over the slow pace of work on the Somanya–Kpong road, urging contractors to accelerate construction ahead of the upcoming Ngmayem festival in October.
Speaking to the media, the traditional leader said while some progress has been made, the current rate of work is not satisfactory and risks inconveniencing residents and visitors expected to converge in the area for the celebrations.
“I’m not happy with the pace of work on the Somanya–Kpong road. I don’t know whether it is due to a low workforce or a lack of equipment,” he stated. “Our festival is approaching, and work must be far advanced by then.”
Health and Environmental Concerns
Beyond delays, the Sipim raised alarm over the worsening dust situation along the construction corridor, describing it as a growing public health issue.
“The contractor is doing well, but he must speed up the work. The dust is sickening us,” he said, calling for immediate measures such as regular watering of the road to minimise airborne particles.
His concerns echo earlier directives by local authorities, who had instructed that the road be watered periodically as a temporary measure to reduce dust pollution in affected communities.
Background of the Project
The Somanya–Kpong road is a critical stretch within Ghana’s Eastern Region road network, linking key towns such as Somanya and Kpong and serving as part of broader regional routes that connect to major highways like the N2 and N3.
The road plays a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods, traders, and commuters across the Krobo area and beyond. However, for years, residents have complained about its deteriorating condition, which has been marked by potholes, dust, and safety hazards.
After prolonged delays and public pressure—including protests by youth groups—construction works on the Somanya–Kpong and adjoining road corridors resumed in late 2025 following the return of contractors, heavy machinery, and renewed government commitment.
Government officials have since indicated that funding challenges contributed to earlier setbacks but assured that the project is back on track as part of broader infrastructure development efforts.
Works are progressing steadily, with expectations that the project could be completed in phases over the coming years if momentum is sustained.
Call for Urgent Action
Despite these assurances, Sipim Narh Tekpetey II insists that more urgency is needed on the ground.
He appealed to the contractor to increase manpower and deploy additional equipment where necessary to hasten progress, stressing that the well-being of residents and the success of the upcoming festival depend on visible improvements.
“We plead with the contractor to expedite action,” he added.
Residents along the stretch have also reiterated similar concerns, warning that unless work is accelerated and dust is controlled, the road could continue to pose serious health and economic challenges to the communities it serves.
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