Editorial
Let’s all support victims of Akosombo and Kpong floods
Last week, angry residents in Kasoa blocked the highway to express their disapproval of the poor quality of the roads and to call on the authorities to address the issues as soon as possible.
The demonstration caused heavy traffic on the Kasoa-Accra highway with majority of passengers alighting from their vehicles to walk to their destinations.
The demonstrators claim that despite years of heavy motor traffic on a stretch of the highway between Old Barrier and the Kasoa Toll Booth because of the frequent floods, nothing has been done to improve the situation.
Other areas include Atala, Tuuba, Amanfron, Osiadan, SCC, Broadcasting among others.
The protesters bemoaned the deteriorating state of the road and the amount of floodwaters covering it anytime it rains causing silt from the hillside to wash over the road and making driving across it difficult.
Although the road is a significant one that connects to the Central and Western Regions as well as some West African countries, there are many potholes and gullies along it, making the situation extremely dangerous and halting economic activity.
Heavy traffic has been an everyday occurrence for commuters travelling between Accra and Kasoa for business purposes, costing them a lot of time.
Travelling on that stretch of road is extremely difficult due to the unendurable traffic, which is especially bad during peak hours and on Saturdays when people drive to attend funerals, visit their children in school, or attend other events.
In addition, there is constant traffic jam in the Budumburam portion due to market activities along the wayside, which is caused by commercial activity on that stretch of road.
It is time to find a lasting solution to this to allow cars to drive freely.
The Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) needs to act quickly to alleviate the extreme traffic congestion on the Accra-Kasoa road in order to save the lives of those who use it.
Resolving these road and traffic congestion problems can help to reduce traffic, boost the economy, facilitate travel, and offer respite to residents and commuters.
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
