Mahama Fulfils Bridge Promise As Asamankese Asuokaw Gets Permanent Structure

Residents of Asuokaw in the Upper West Akim District of Ghana’s Eastern Region have welcomed the construction of a permanent bridge over the river in their community, describing the development as a major relief after years of struggling with an unsafe crossing.

The new structure has replaced the makeshift bridge that residents previously depended on to move across the river. Its construction has also fulfilled a promise made by President John Dramani Mahama after the difficult conditions faced by people using the route attracted national attention.

The bridge became a major public concern after a video circulated on social media showing schoolchildren using a narrow log placed across the River Ayensu to get to school. The footage raised questions about the safety of children and other residents who had to use the dangerous crossing as part of their daily activities.

The situation prompted calls for urgent government intervention, with President Mahama directing the relevant authorities to assess the problem and find a lasting solution. The plan was to provide a permanent structure that would remove the community’s dependence on the risky makeshift crossing.

In June 2025, the Member of Parliament for Upper West Akim, Emmanuel Drah, told the Daily Graphic that preparations for the bridge project were being reviewed by the Ministry of Roads and Highways and the Feeder Roads Department. He said the reconstruction was intended to provide both vehicular and pedestrian access.

The project later faced delays, including interruptions caused by heavy rainfall and rising water levels. In August 2026, the Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, announced that construction had resumed after weather conditions had temporarily prevented work from continuing.

With the permanent bridge now in place, residents have expressed appreciation to President Mahama for ensuring that the long-standing problem received attention.

The development is significant for schoolchildren, traders, farmers and other community members who rely on the route. A safer crossing is expected to make their daily movements easier and reduce the risks associated with using the old structure.

For Asuokaw residents, the new bridge represents more than a physical connection across the river. It marks the replacement of a dangerous daily routine with a safer means of accessing the other side of their community.

Source: https://x.com/sikaofficial1/status/2121159873740013932?s=46

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