Hope At Last For River Offin Communities

The bridge under construction

 

AFTER DECADES of risking their lives to cross the River Offin on canoes and wooden boats, residents of Ntobroso and surrounding communities in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region are set to heave a sigh of relief as construction of a major bridge over the river has commenced.

The project is being undertaken by Ede3n Na Nyame Ntumi Ny3 Group of Companies in partnership with the Atwima Mponua District Assembly to provide a permanent solution to the perennial transportation challenges confronting residents.

For years, communities along the River Offin were cut off during the rainy season, forcing residents, traders, farmers and schoolchildren to rely on canoes to cross the river. The dangerous means of transportation has claimed several lives and left many others injured.

The District Chief Executive for Atwima Mponua, Ibrahim Issahak, described the situation as alarming, revealing that at least 10 people have lost their lives this year alone in canoe accidents on the River Offin.

According to him, the canoe frequently loses control during heavy rains, leading to fatal accidents.

He said the bridge would not only save lives but also improve access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities, facilitate the movement of people and goods, as well as stimulate economic growth in Ntobroso and neighbouring communities.

Ibrahim Issahak commended Ede3n Na Nyame Ntumi Ny3 Group of Companies and its Chief Executive Officer, Nana Adu Gyamfi, for partnering with the Assembly to undertake the life-changing project, describing it as a shining example of the public-private partnerships needed to accelerate development in deprived communities.

Speaking to DAILY GUIDE, Nana Adu Gyamfi said the plight of residents deeply moved him and inspired his decision to intervene.

“Every rainy season, our people risk their lives just to cross this river. The canoe accidents and deaths must stop. That is why my company has partnered with the District Assembly to construct a strong and durable bridge for the people of Ntobroso,” he stated.

He noted that the bridge would provide residents with safe and reliable access throughout the year and eliminate their dependence on the dangerous canoe crossing.

Nana Adu Gyamfi appealed to government, corporate institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and philanthropists to support similar interventions in deprived communities across the country.

He also called on the government to intensify rural development by improving road infrastructure, providing school furniture and addressing other pressing challenges confronting rural communities.

The businessman attributed his passion for community development to the inspiration he received from his uncle, Mr. Danso, whom he described as a great community developer who believed that true leadership is measured by the impact made in the lives of ordinary people.

 

FROM David Afum, Ntobroso

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