TONGO–SHEAGA–PELUNGU ROAD PROJECT TAKES OFF: ROADS MINISTER CUTS SOD IN TONGO
A major road project has officially moved from promise to action in Talensi.
The Talensi District today witnessed a significant milestone in its development journey as the Honourable Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza, officially cut the sod for the commencement of works on the 36-kilometre Tongo–Sheaga–Pelungu Road Upgrade Project.
The ceremony, held at Tongo amidst light showers of rain, brought together traditional leaders, political leaders, technical officers, the contractor and community members to mark the beginning of a project of immense importance to the people of Talensi.
The dignitaries included the Member of Parliament for Talensi, Hon. Daniel Dung Mahama, the Hon. DCE for Talensi, Hon. John Millim Nabwomya, Chief Director of Highways, the Chief of Baare, who represented the Paramount Chief of Talensi Traditional Area, the Chiefs of Yameriga, Tongo-Beo and Gbane, elders of the various traditional areas, the District Coordinating Director, District Director of Education, District Works Engineer, representatives of ARACO, the project contractor, and members of the community.
In his welcome address, the Hon. Member of Parliament for Talensi expressed profound appreciation to the Roads Minister for his commitment to the road and for ensuring that the project was captured in the national budget and subsequently awarded to a contractor. He noted that the project represents a major response to a long-standing concern of the people of Talensi and expressed gratitude on behalf of the constituency.
Speaking on behalf of the Paramount Chief of Tongo, the Chief of Baare conveyed His Royal Highness’s regret at his inability to attend the ceremony due to other equally important engagements. He, however, expressed great satisfaction that the longstanding concern of the people regarding the deplorable condition of the road is finally being addressed.
The team subsequently inspected the scope of work, with the Hon. DCE taking the Roads Minister through the project alignment and the various sections covered by the project.
In a strong message to the contractor, Hon. Kwame Agbodza stressed that the Ministry of Roads and Highways does not take delight in merely cutting sod for projects, but is interested in seeing actual construction work taking place on the ground.
The Minister noted that although he had observed that the contractor had already commenced the stockpiling of materials for the drainage works, there was no justification for any further delay. He therefore directed the contractor to commence substantive works immediately, stressing the need for timely delivery and quality construction.
He further cautioned that the contractor has no excuse not to begin work, as the necessary arrangements are in place, and warned that failure to execute the project as required could result in the contractor being changed.
In his closing remarks, the Hon. DCE for Talensi expressed sincere gratitude to Almighty God and acknowledged the leadership and commitment of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, the Hon. Roads Minister and the Member of Parliament for Talensi for their respective roles in advancing the project.
The Hon. DCE reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to providing the necessary institutional and supervisory support to ensure that the project is successfully executed and completed to the required standards. He also expressed appreciation to the traditional authorities and called for their continued support and cooperation throughout the construction period.
For the people of Talensi, the Tongo–Sheaga–Pelungu Road Upgrade Project is more than a road project. It is an important intervention expected to improve connectivity, facilitate the movement of people and goods, enhance access to social and economic opportunities, and contribute significantly to the development of communities along the corridor.
The Talensi District Assembly looks forward to seeing the commencement of full-scale works and remains committed to working with the Ministry of Roads and Highways, the contractor, traditional authorities and local communities towards the successful completion of this important project.
A significant step forward for Talensi.
A better road network.
Greater connectivity.
Greater opportunity.