The Tano North Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Pius Opoku, in a major move to transform the local transport landscape, has officially broken ground on a project to construct a total of 75 kilometres of roads.

The initiative, powered by the District Road Improvement Program (DRIP), aims to ensure that every corner of the municipality is motorable and easily accessible, regardless of location.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, March 4, Mr. Opoku announced that the project would be distributed equitably. Each of the municipality’s five zones, including major hubs such as Duayaw-Nkwanta and Bomaa, will receive 15 kilometres of road upgrades.

The scope of work includes township roads, internal linkages, trunk roads to connect major markets and strategic bypasses to ease urban congestion.

"The municipality has not been left out of the government’s infrastructure agenda," the MCE stated, noting that eleven different roads across the area have already been awarded on contract and are currently at various stages of construction.

Beyond mere convenience, the construction of these roads is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic growth in the Tano North Municipality.

Improved roads will allow farmers in the municipality to transport perishable goods to markets faster, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing profit margins.

Motorable roads mean less wear and tear on vehicles, leading to lower maintenance costs for commercial drivers and more affordable fares for residents.

Enhanced accessibility makes the municipality more attractive for small-scale industries and private developers, potentially increasing property values and local employment.

Mr. Opoku extended his gratitude to President Mahama and the Roads and Highways Minister for the inclusion of the Bomaa-Duayaw-Nkwanta stretch in the PUSH project, a move sparked by an appeal from the MCE and the Ahafo Regional Minister.

The Ahafo Regional Coordinator of DRIP, Shaike Abdullah, emphasised that the programme is focused on value for money. He assured the public of strict supervision and accountability regarding the use of DRIP machinery and called on residents to help protect the equipment from misuse.

The project has received strong backing from traditional authorities. Nana Nsowaa Diawuo Kokroko, the Akoanahene of Duayaw-Nkwanta, pledged the full support of the traditional council. He noted that a well-structured community was the dream of the late paramount chief, Nana Boakye Tromoo.

"I urge all residents, especially those who have unlawfully situated property along demarcated road paths, to cooperate with the Assembly and give way for the realisation of this project," the Chief cautioned.

As the DRIP machines begin their work, the Tano North Assembly remains committed to fulfilling its mandate of improving living conditions through a modern, accessible transportation system.