Denchembuoso-Techiman road in disrepair
Residents in the Ashanti Region are calling on the government to urgently intervene in the reconstruction of the Denchembuoso-Techiman road, which has deteriorated into an unusable and hazardous route over the years.
The road, which connects several communities including Trabuom, Ofoase, Atwima Boko, and Twedie, was upgraded in 2019 as part of a 16.2-kilometer Kwadaso-Trabuom project awarded to Asabea Engineering Limited.
It was expected to be completed within two years but has since been abandoned, causing major disruptions in transport, commerce, and daily life.
Speaking to Citi News, some residents expressed frustration with the dust pollution during the dry season and the muddy, pothole-ridden conditions when it rains.
Nana Yaa Kyerewaa, a local trader, said the road’s condition is affecting businesses and public health.
“If you sit in a commercial vehicle, you won’t have peace. The dust is affecting our lives. If someone is selling food, you are essentially buying sickness.”
Community leaders are also raising concerns. Nana Tie-Bonsu Ansah II, Linguist for the Atwimahene, lamented that despite being near Kumasi, the road feels like “you’ve traveled to a remote village.”
Drivers plying the route report constant vehicle breakdowns.
“Every four days I have to visit a mechanic because of the road,” said driver Tony Bekumah. “We are calling on the government to come to our aid.”
Another driver, Alex Nyarko, added, “Every day we need maintenance. The contractor has abandoned the site. We need the road fixed.”
The situation has impacted travel times, with some commutes increasing from 15 minutes to over an hour.
Assembly Member David Asare said community leaders are appealing to the government not just for road repairs but for broader economic revitalisation.
“If the road is fixed, it will attract investors and create jobs. Right now, even businesses that want to come here are discouraged because of the road.”
Nana Afriyei Takyi, Odikro and Nifahene of Atwima Techiman, echoed the sentiment.
“We the chiefs have land to attract investors, but the road is a major setback. We are urging government intervention.”
Despite several calls for help, residents say there has been no update on when work will resume. They are now appealing directly to authorities to act before the next rainy season worsens conditions.
NAD/MA