The Bono Regional Minister, Madam Justina Owusu-Banahene, has assured that with the implementation of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), no foodstuffs or cash crops will be left stranded due to poor roads in the Bono Region.
Speaking at the official handover of DRIP machinery to the Municipal and District Assemblies in Sunyani, the Minister emphasized that these machines would be utilized effectively for the benefit of the people.
She highlighted that this initiative underscores the NPP government’s commitment to ensuring that all roads in the region, particularly access roads and feeder roads, become fully accessible and motorable, facilitating the movement of produce from farming areas.
Madam Justina Owusu-Banahene further mentioned that thanks to the DRIP initiative, long-distance truck drivers, especially those transporting cashews from Jaman North, Jaman South, Tain, and Wenchi, will no longer fear the challenges of bad roads.
She also reassured farmers that concerns about post-harvest losses due to transportation difficulties to market centres within the Bono Region would soon be a thing of the past, relieving them of the anxiety about future losses.
She stated that the initiative is a significant step forward in fulfilling the President’s pledge to the people of Bono and Ghana, ensuring that the nation’s resources are shared equitably across all regions.
She emphasized that this project continues the government’s commitment, following the declaration of 2022 and 2023 as the years of road development. “Today, we witness the realization of our promise to enhance the infrastructure within our districts, thereby improving the lives of our people,” she stated.
The District Roads Improvement Project, aptly named DRIP, is set to transform the region’s road network. One thousand five hundred pieces of equipment have been distributed nationwide, with the Bono Region receiving 96 vital tools. Among the equipment allocated are 12 Tipper Trucks, 12 Graders, 12 Backhoes, 12 Water Tankers, 12 Rollers, 6 Wheel Loaders, 3 Bulldozers, 3 Low Beds, and 24 Concrete Mixers. This array of machinery is expected to bring about a significant improvement in the region’s road infrastructure.
The Minister highlighted the numerous benefits that DRIP would bring to the people of Bono. The project’s implementation will create over 300 jobs, boosting both direct and indirect employment.
This increase in employment opportunities is expected to raise the local population’s income levels and living standards. Furthermore, the region will experience good roads throughout the year, significantly reducing post-harvest losses for farmers and facilitating more accessible access to market centres.
The improved transport system will reduce vehicle breakdowns and lower lorry fares, opening up communities within the districts and fostering economic growth.
Madam Justina Owusu-Banahene urged all stakeholders to ensure the longevity of the equipment by adhering to best practices in training, maintenance, and record-keeping.
She stressed the importance of proper storage, regular inspections, and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards to prevent damage and contamination.
“It is our collective responsibility to protect and preserve these resources, ensuring they serve us well for many years,” she advised.
The Minister reaffirmed the Regional Coordinating Council’s readiness to support such projects, pledging its unwavering commitment to building strong and vibrant communities within the Bono Region, fostering a sense of hope and optimism among the audience.
