Assembly Member appeals for timely commissioning of Aklakpa–Tsetsekpo bridges
Mr. Guggisberg Fiagbenu, Assembly Member of the Adidome Central Electoral Area and Chairman of the Adidome–Juapong Transport Union, has appealed to the government and the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) to facilitate the timely inspection, commissioning, and official opening of the completed Aklakpa and Tsetsekpo bridges on the Adidome–Juapong corridor.
In a statement, Mr. Fiagbenu highlighted the collaborative efforts that have gone into the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the bridges, noting that the progress achieved reflects government’s responsiveness to the needs of communities in the Tongu enclave.
He recalled that following the collapse of the Aklakpa bridge, he worked closely with the media, particularly the Ghana News Agency (GNA), to draw national attention to the matter.
Government, he said, subsequently initiated reconstruction works, with Mr Roland Appiani, the lead engineer, providing periodic updates on progress.
Mr. Fiagbenu added that a similar appeal was made for the upgrade of the Tsetsekpo bridge to meet the standard of the Aklakpa bridge; an appeal that was acknowledged by government, resulting in significant rehabilitation and expansion works.
Despite some temporary pauses during the construction phases, both bridges have now been completed, with confirmation from Mr Appiani and the project supervisor, Mr Jonas Asamoa Peprah.
He noted that his office sought clarification from the Volta Regional Directorate of the Ghana Highway Authority regarding the next steps for official commissioning and handover, but is yet to receive a response.
He emphasised that such communication would greatly assist the community in planning and ensuring smooth use of the infrastructure.
Mr. Fiagbenu expressed appreciation to government, the Ghana Highway Authority, and all stakeholders for their commitment to improving road safety and mobility in the area.
He explained that the community’s request for timely commissioning is motivated by the need to avoid disruptions, particularly given the challenges associated with the alternative route, which remains in poor condition.
Mr Fiagbenu also commended the engineers and project supervisors for their efforts and cooperation throughout the construction period. He however noted that limited access was permitted on portions of the bridges to ease movement, with his office offering support to shape the approach road where necessary.
As part of the community’s contribution to national recovery efforts, he announced that the transport union reduced fares by five per cent effective December 8, 2025, as a gesture aimed at enhancing economic stability within the enclave.
Mr. Fiagbenu, however, observed that recent misunderstandings regarding the accessibility of the bridges resulted in tension among some youth.
He called for calm and encouraged all parties to exercise restraint while awaiting official directives from the appropriate authorities.
He reiterated his appeal to the government and GHA to expedite the inspection and commissioning processes, expressing confidence that constructive engagement will lead to a positive outcome that benefits both commuters and the broader Tongu area.
Mr. Fiagbenu further stated that the community remains committed to working collaboratively with authorities and believes that commissioning the bridges will mark an important step toward improved transportation and economic growth in the region.
The Ghana News Agency also contacted the regional management of the Ghana Highway Authority and Mr Roland Appiani, who appealed to residents to exercise a little more patience as preparations for the commissioning are underway.
They explained that the final works on the access road have already been awarded to a contractor, who is expected to resume work shortly to complete the remaining tasks before the bridge is formally commissioned.
Mr Fiagbenu however appealed to the management of the Ghana Highway Authority to ensure that they swiftly complete the final inspection and commissioning of the bridges within one week, noting that timely action will help ease the transportation difficulties faced by residents. He emphasised that the community is only seeking clarity and closure on the project.
He added that if no response is received after the one-week period, the community may consider a peaceful demonstration to further draw attention to their concerns.
Mr. Fiagbenu stressed that this would be a last resort, guided by respect for the law and a commitment to constructive engagement.
