Members of the clergy in the Volta Region have raised serious concerns about the deteriorating state of roads in various parts of the region.

The concerns were raised by members of the clergy during a recent meeting with the Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential candidate for election 2024, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who’s on a tour of the region.

The clergy highlighted the adverse effects of the poor road network on residents' daily lives, particularly in rural areas.

They stressed that the lack of proper infrastructure hampers economic activities, affects healthcare delivery, and poses significant safety risks.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Reverend Emmanuel Kofi Nyarko, a prominent figure in the Volta religious community, emphasised the urgent need for government intervention to alleviate the suffering of the people.

“Our roads are deplorable, making it extremely difficult for us to carry out our pastoral duties and for our congregants to go about their daily activities. The government must take immediate action to improve these roads to enhance the quality of life for our people,” Reverend Nyarko stated.

In response to the concerns, Dr Bawumia acknowledged the challenges posed by the poor road infrastructure and assured the clergy that the government is committed to addressing the issue. He mentioned that several road projects are already in the pipeline as part of the government's broader infrastructural development agenda.

“The government is fully aware of the difficulties faced by the people of the Volta Region due to the poor state of roads. We are doing everything possible to ensure that these roads are constructed and rehabilitated. However, we also believe that involving the private sector in road construction can expedite the process and ensure higher quality,” Dr Bawumia remarked.

Dr Bawumia further explained that public-private partnerships could play a crucial role in enhancing infrastructure development across the country. He suggested that private sector involvement could bring in the necessary expertise, efficiency, and funding to improve the road network more swiftly and sustainably.

The Vice President’s comments have sparked a conversation about the role of the private sector in national infrastructure development.
While some stakeholders welcome the idea, others expressed concern about potential cost implications for end-users and the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure accountability and quality.

The Vice President's tour of the Volta Region includes meetings with various community leaders, stakeholders, and residents, aiming to address pressing issues and reinforce the government's commitment to regional development.