The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Kwadaso, Eric Assibey, has reaffirmed his determination to ensure that all inner roads within the Kwadaso Municipality are tarred before the end of his tenure.
Speaking to journalists during the Parliament’s Local Government Committee hearing on the 2023/2024 Auditor-General’s Report on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), Mr. Assibey described the poor road network as one of the municipality’s most pressing development challenges.
“When you talk of a place being a municipality, our current road network does not reflect that status. That is why we are working with the Department of Urban Roads to change the story,” he stated.
According to him, out of about 435 kilometres of road in the municipality, 340 kilometres have been engineered, while 127 kilometres have been tarred — leaving a considerable portion still untarred.
Mr. Assibey said the assembly has prioritized road infrastructure under its development agenda to open up communities, improve access, and facilitate trade and economic growth.
“A whole Kwadaso Municipality cannot continue to have poor inner roads. It doesn’t speak well of us. We are working assiduously to ensure that in no time, Kwadaso becomes a municipality that truly befits its status,” he assured.
Poor Roads Affecting Growth The MCE lamented that during the rainy season, many untarred roads become muddy and impassable, disrupting transportation and economic activities. He said the situation not only affects mobility but also discourages investment.
“Whenever it rains, certain parts of the municipality become almost unmotorable. It’s a serious issue that affects local businesses and residents alike, but we are determined to fix it,” he emphasized.
He revealed that discussions are underway with contractors and relevant agencies to fast-track rehabilitation works on critical road networks, especially in communities that have long been neglected.
Education Also a Priority Beyond roads, Mr. Assibey highlighted ongoing investments in education infrastructure within the municipality.
“We are working on an 1,800-bed girls’ dormitory at Yaa Asantewaa Girls Senior High School, which has already been approved by GETFund. Another dormitory is underway at Methodist Girls Institute, and we are also supporting Nzema Senior High School,” he disclosed.
He further noted that within three months of assuming office, several key education projects had been initiated. He added that the Education Minister has pledged a new school bus for Yaa Asantewaa Girls SHS to improve student mobility.
A Vision for a Lasting Legacy Mr. Assibey said his tenure will be measured by tangible improvements in infrastructure and education, noting that his goal is to leave behind a municipality that reflects modern urban standards.
“Before I leave office, I want to ensure that all our inner roads are tarred, and all schools are in good condition,” he declared. “No child should have to travel long distances for quality education when nearby schools can provide the same.”
Analysis Kwadaso, one of the fastest-growing enclaves in the Ashanti Region, continues to grapple with poor roads and uneven infrastructure despite its proximity to Kumasi. Mr. Assibey’s renewed focus on road and education projects reflects a push to reposition the municipality as a modern, well-planned urban centre.
However, success will depend on sustained funding, effective supervision of contractors, and close collaboration between the assembly and central government agencies. If achieved, his vision could significantly improve the municipality’s livability, attract investment, and enhance residents’ quality of life.
Source: Felix Nyaaba/expressnewsghana.com