Kojo Danquah, Regional Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on the government to repair the deteriorated road network in cocoa-growing communities in the Eastern Region before the end of the year.
He stated at a press conference on August 14 that the poor road conditions are severely impacting residents’ socio-economic lives.
“The economic toll on local businesses is equally severe. Many stores and shops
have been forced to close down due to the relentless dust and debris that have resulted from the deteriorated road conditions.
The accumulation of dust has damaged goods and created an unhealthy environment for both employees and customers. Shops that once thrived are now shut, unable to cope with the adverse effects of the failing infrastructure. This has led to a reduction in local economic activity and employment opportunities, compounding the already
dire situation in our region,”
Mr Danquah also pointed out that, their findings indicate the poor state of the road network in cocoa growing communities has contributed to decline in cocoa production.
“Poor state of the entire road network in the region has precipitated a tragic collapse in
cocoa production, with Eastern Region’s output plummeting from an unprecedented 100,000 metric tons in 2016 to a dismal 24,000 metric tons as we speak. Farmers, who depend on these roads to transport their precious cocoa beans, are left with their crops rotting away in the farms due to the road’s dire condition.
He promised that an NDC government under John Dramani Mahama will prioritize road infrastructure development, focusing on urban and rural areas, and revitalize the Cocoa Roads Project to facilitate efficient transport of agricultural goods.
The Rural Road Improvement Program will also prioritize road maintenance and upgrading in remote areas, promoting equitable development.
The NDC aims to address infrastructure deficiencies, reduce travel times, support economic activities, and improve residents’ quality of life. With a clear plan, the NDC and President Mahama are committed to delivering robust infrastructure solutions for sustainable growth.” He stated.
Bainamultimedia/Khadijahtu Kubura Kailani
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