Residents of Yilo and Lower Manya Krobo in the Eastern Region have called on the Government to incorporate asphalt overlays in the Somanya‑Dodowa trunk road rehabilitation, citing the heavy truck traffic that is rapidly deteriorating key routes. The plea comes ahead of a sod‑cutting ceremony on 5 September 2026, when Roads Minister Kwame Agbodza is expected to launch the project and selected roads in Somanya.
Local residents from Somanya, Odumase‑Krobo and Kpong told the Ghana News Agency that the road works present an opportunity to build a durable network capable of withstanding the growing number of heavy‑duty vehicles. Teacher Mr Ebenezer Tetteh praised the government for resuming construction on the Somanya‑Adjikpo‑Asitey‑Kpong road, noting the relief from years of dust and poor conditions. “The resumption of the road construction has brought relief to us. For some time, we were battling with dust, but now our road is being tarred,” he said. He added that the daily flow of about 50 limestone haulage trucks places enormous pressure on the road, making an asphalt overlay essential for longevity.
Commercial driver Mr Samuel Samadzi highlighted that several roads in Somanya remain in poor condition, including the Ogome Anglican School‑Abokobi‑Zongo Bypass, a vital alternative route when the main highway is congested. He also raised concerns about the Somanya‑Agomeda‑Ayikuma‑Dodowa Road, where armed robbery attacks have become frequent as drivers slow to avoid potholes. “A smooth asphalt road will improve traffic flow and enhance safety for commuters,” he said.
Other residents and road users echoed the call, arguing that properly constructed asphalt roads would reduce maintenance costs, improve transportation and support economic activities across the area. The Somanya‑Kpong and Somanya‑Dodowa roads are critical links between the Eastern and Greater Accra regions, facilitating the movement of agricultural produce, limestone, commercial goods and thousands of commuters. Residents stressed that these roads serve as lifelines connecting communities to markets, schools, health facilities and economic opportunities.
The sod‑cutting ceremony will be attended by Eastern Regional Minister Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Presidential Adviser on the Economy Mr Seth Terkper, Yilo Krobo MP Dr Albert Tetteh Nyakotey, Yilo Krobo Municipal Chief Executive Mr Francis Addo Akumatey, and other government officials and traditional leaders. Residents insist that including asphalt overlays will protect public investment and keep the roads in good condition for longer despite the growing volume of commercial traffic.
