Residents of Kpare and neighbouring communities in the Daffiama Bussie Issa District of the Upper West Region have issued a solid request to politicians and authorities, demanding immediate action on their severely deteriorated road.
The community’s ongoing struggles with the road have led them to declare that they will only welcome political campaigns in the area if the issue is addressed promptly.
The road in question, which connects Kpare with Kojokperi and Wa, has fallen into a state of disrepair. It is marked by severe potholes and erosion that make it nearly impassable.
This deterioration has hindered transportation and had critical repercussions on health and economic activities in the region.
On August 9, 2024, the local assembly members and residents took matters into their own hands by attempting to fill the gaping holes and create diversions around collapsing road sections.
Despite their efforts, the road remains in poor condition, reflecting years of neglect.
Sumaila Haruna, the Unit Committee Chairman of the Kpare/Chala electoral area, voiced the community’s frustration, stating, “Despite repeated pleas to authorities, no action has been taken on the road.
We are therefore urging the public, especially politicians, to refrain from bringing their campaign activities to Kpare ahead of the general elections or risk our wrath.”
The condition of the road has profoundly impacted the lives of Kpare residents.
The challenges include difficulties accessing healthcare services, as poor road conditions make it increasingly difficult to transport patients to Kojokperi for referrals.
Additionally, the road’s deterioration has affected local commerce, with traders opting for markets in Bussie instead of Kpare due to the road’s poor state.
Angkpalanuba Michael, a representative of the landlords, emphasized the broader implications of the road’s condition. “The destructive nature of the road has posed significant challenges to us.
This significant road needs attention because people from Wa East also use it. We are unable to carry our women in labour to the hospital. A tricycle carrying a woman in labour some time ago even had an accident on the road, which worsened her condition.”
The road’s poor state has also affected the local economy, particularly impacting farmers who struggle to transport their produce.
This economic strain and the road’s impact on health and safety have heightened residents’ frustration.
Mumuni Seidu Baani, the Assembly Member for the Kpare/Chala electoral area, voiced his concerns about the road’s condition, warning that it is on the brink of becoming completely impassable.
“The road is caving in, and if it continues, it will finally be cut off, and we will not be able to travel to nearby communities.
He said another road links the community to Wa through Bayiri, but it is also in poor shape.
As general elections approach, the residents of Kpare have made it clear that their support will hinge on resolving their road issues.
They have warned that failure to address the problem will result in a boycott of political campaigns and a refusal to vote for candidates who do not prioritize their concerns.
The situation in Kpare has garnered media attention, highlighting the region’s critical need for infrastructure improvement.
The outcome of this issue could play a significant role in the political landscape as elections draw near, with residents signalling that tangible action rather than promises will determine their votes.
