Editorial
Are the footbridges working?
Dear Editor,
The spate of pedestrian knock-downs compelled the government to construct footbridges on the Madina-Adenta highway.
It is important to note that the government intervened following constant agitation by citizens along the stretch over the many lives that were being lost almost on a daily basis due to the non-existence of footbridges in the area.
Perharps one of the inicidents which cannot be erased from their memory was the death of a West African Senior High School (WASS) student who was knocked down by a speeding vehicle.
As a regular commuter on that road, I am still at a loss over how some citizens continue to cross the road without using the footbridges they asked the government to build for them.
About two years ago, we saw how the Madina-Adenta local task force and the Ghana Police Service (GPS) attempted to enforce the use of the footbriges by arresting and issuing instant punishment to some culprit.
Cleary, the exercise could not be sustained and some of the residents have returned to their old ways. As it stands drivers and pedestrians somehow continue to ‘battle’ one another over who is the rightful ‘owner’ of the road.
Some traders have also extended their businesses to parts of the footbridges. The least said about the chaos on the Adenta main road, the better.
I, therefore, wish to encourage individuals especially along the Madina-Adenta stretch to cherish their lives and cross the road safely at the exact places that have been demarcated and use footbridges at all times, where it has been provided.
Let me empahsise that part of the road is a highway because drivers usually drive at top speed and they sometimes find it difficult to slow down for pedestrians to cross. This was the reason the footbridges were built, and we must all ensure it serves the intended purpose.
George Obeng Osei, Dodowa.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
