Residents of Ntobroso and several adjoining communities in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region are set to benefit from improved transportation and safer access following the commencement of the construction of a bridge over the River Offin through a public-private partnership.
The project is being undertaken by Edeɛn Na Nyame Ntumi Nyɛ Group of Companies in collaboration with the Atwima Mponua District Assembly to address the long-standing challenges faced by residents who have relied on canoes and wooden boats to cross the river for decades.
Dangerous Crossing.
For years, the absence of a bridge over the River Offin has left residents stranded during the rainy season, disrupting economic activities, access to healthcare and education, while exposing commuters to life-threatening risks.
Several canoe accidents over the years have resulted in injuries and fatalities, making the construction of the bridge one of the most anticipated infrastructure projects in the district.
CEO’s Intervention.
Speaking in an interview, the Chief Executive Officer of Edeɛn Na Nyame Ntumi Nyɛ Group of Companies, Nana Adu Gyamfi, said the decision to finance the project was inspired by the plight of the people and his desire to improve their living conditions.
He described the recurring tragedies on the river as unacceptable, noting that no community should continue to lose lives because of the absence of basic infrastructure.
“What is happening here really touches my heart. 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 here at Ntobroso,” he stated.
According to him, the bridge will provide residents with a safe and reliable means of crossing the river throughout the year, ending their dependence on the dangerous canoe service.
Nana Adu Gyamfi further appealed to corporate organisations, non-governmental organisations and philanthropists to support deprived communities facing similar developmental challenges.
He also urged the government to prioritise infrastructure development in rural communities, citing poor road networks, inadequate school furniture and limited access to essential social amenities as major obstacles to development.
The businessman revealed that his passion for community development was inspired by his late uncle, Mr. Danso, whom he described as a visionary developer committed to improving the lives of the people.
“He taught me that development means putting the people first, and that is the principle guiding this intervention,” he added.
DCE Commends Initiative
The District Chief Executive for Atwima Mponua, Hon. Ibrahim Issahak, praised the company for partnering with the Assembly to undertake the project, describing it as a timely intervention that would save lives and accelerate development in the area.
He disclosed that at least ten people had lost their lives this year alone in canoe accidents on the River Offin.
“The canoe our people depend on has claimed ten lives this year because it often loses control during heavy rains. This is unacceptable, and we cannot continue to watch innocent people die while trying to cross the river,” he lamented.
Hon. Issahak said the bridge would significantly improve transportation, facilitate trade and commerce, enhance access to schools and health facilities, and strengthen socio-economic activities in Ntobroso and neighbouring communities.
He noted that the project demonstrated the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing infrastructure deficits in rural Ghana.
The DCE commended Nana Adu Gyamfi and Ede3n Na Nyame Ntumi Ny3 Group of Companies for their commitment to the welfare of the people and expressed confidence that the project would bring lasting relief to thousands of residents.
Transforming Lives.
When completed, the bridge is expected to eliminate the dangerous river crossing, improve connectivity within the district and boost economic activities by providing farmers, traders, students and healthcare seekers with safe and uninterrupted access throughout the year.
Residents have welcomed the initiative with optimism, expressing hope that the long-awaited bridge will finally put an end to the recurring loss of lives on the River Offin while opening a new chapter of development for Ntobroso and its surrounding communities.
