By Daniel Bampoe
Anger and frustration spilled onto the streets of Amasaman and Nsawam on Saturday as scores of residents staged a massive protest against the government’s continued neglect of the long-stalled Ofankor-Nsawam road project.
The demonstration brought renewed attention to one of the most critical yet derelict transportation corridors linking Accra to the major parts of the country.
The Ofankor-Nsawam road has, for years, been a major artery facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services between the capital and surrounding regions.
Yet, its current condition — marred by deep potholes, eroded shoulders, and dusty, uneven surfaces — has become a nightmare for daily commuters, stalling economic activities around the corridor.
According to residents, the deteriorating state of the road has led to frequent accidents, vehicular breakdowns, and hours of delay in traffic.
The protest, which remained largely peaceful under the watch of security personnel, saw the participation of local residents, commercial drivers, traders, and business owners who rely heavily on the road for their livelihoods.
Demonstrators marched with placards reading, “Accidents Daily, How Many More?”, “Accountability Missing!” and “Years of Dust, Delays and Broken Promises.”
Jeffrey Smith, a leading member of the Nsawam Traffic Watch Community, explained that the protest was born out of years of broken promises from authorities.
“We are tired of empty assurances. We don’t want words anymore; we want action,” he declared.
The outcry has forced a response from the Member of Parliament for Amasaman, Sedem Kweku Afenyo, who, on the same day, offered fresh assurances that the government remains committed to completing the road project.
Speaking to the media, Afenyo disclosed that he had held discussions with the Minister for Roads and Highways, who reportedly gave firm commitments to prioritize the road once funds are released.
“I can give them the assurance that this road will be fixed,” the MP said. “The minister has indicated to me that this is one of the top roads the government is keen on completing. The dust situation is terrible, and I’ve raised this matter both in Parliament and directly with the minister.”
Despite these reassurances, many residents remain skeptical. Several demonstrators questioned the timing of the MP’s comments, suggesting that government attention only comes when public pressure mounts.
The Ofankor-Nsawam road project has faced several halts over the years due to funding challenges and bureaucratic delays. In previous instances, contractors abandoned the site after months of stalled work, leaving behind heavy machinery and skeletal infrastructure.
Residents say they have watched the road fall into worse disrepair with each passing rainy season.
As of now, no specific timeline has been given for the resumption of construction work.
Meanwhile, local businesses along the stretch continue to suffer from reduced customer traffic and increased transportation costs due to poor road conditions.
Saturday’s protest may have ended peacefully, but residents are vowing to sustain the pressure if tangible progress isn’t seen soon.
