Dr. Sebastian Sandaare, the Member of Parliament for Daffiama-Bussie-Issa in the Upper West Region, has made a passionate appeal to President John Dramani Mahama to urgently reconstruct the Wa-Bole-Techiman Road. The road, which forms part of the N12 trans-ECOWAS highway, connects the Upper West and Savannah Regions to southern Ghana and neighboring Burkina Faso.
Speaking in Parliament on Friday, March 14, 2025, Dr. Sandaare emphasized the critical importance of the road to the economic growth and social development of the regions. He lamented that the road’s current deplorable state has resulted in the loss of social and economic benefits, which a good road network should provide.
“The Wa-Bole-Techiman Road is in a state of disrepair, characterized by large potholes, weak culverts, and excessive dust. This has led to increased transportation costs, inflated prices of goods and services, and deterred investments and tourism in the region,” Dr. Sandaare stated.
He further highlighted the severe challenges posed by the road’s poor condition, including frequent armed robbery attacks and accidents. Dr. Sandaare noted that the safety and security of commuters are at great risk, and the road’s neglect over the past decade has resulted in significant economic and social costs.
“The prolonged sitting hours on the road pose serious health risks to passengers. Communities along the stretch are also experiencing a rise in respiratory diseases due to daily dust inhalation. Patient transportation is equally affected, as reports indicate worsening medical conditions among patients referred to the Upper West Regional Hospital due to the delays caused by the bad road,” Dr. Sandaare explained.
Dr. Sandaare warned that if urgent action is not taken, the continued deterioration of the road will further hinder economic and social development in the region. He urged the government to take swift action to reconstruct the road, which would enhance socio-economic development and improve the quality of life for people in the Upper West and Savannah Regions.
“I appeal to the President, through the Minister responsible for Roads and Highways, to urgently rehabilitate and reconstruct the Wa-Bole-Techiman Road. This will not only improve the safety and security of commuters but also stimulate economic growth and social progress in the region,” Dr. Sandaare concluded.
