The Ga West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Mr. Clement Wilkinson has assured the return of the contractor following updates on the ongoing road construction project aimed at improving access to Adjen Kotoko Onion Market and surrounding areas from Joy News and public scrutiny
The MCE emphasized the commitment of both local authorities and the central government to enhance the road infrastructure, especially to serve the people of Adjen Kotoko and the popular Adjen Kotoko Onion Market. Mr. Wilkinson noted that a contractor has already been assigned to work on the roads in the township, making significant progress so far. However, Mr. Wilkinson pointed out that, the main road still requires substantial work to bring it to the desired standard.
“That road has been given to a contractor, and the contractor [has] done a lot within the township.”
Mr. Clement Wilkinson the Ga West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE)
Mr. Wilkinson acknowledged the need for more advanced development, particularly the creation of an asphalt road. The MCE elaborated on the future design plans for the road, highlighting that the aim is to construct a two-lane road, with two lanes in each direction.
“We are trying to do something like the two-lane, a two [lanes] here and two [lanes] here.”
Mr. Clement Wilkinson the Ga West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE)
However, due to the immediate need for an accessible road, they have instructed the contractor to focus on completing a single lane for now.
“…Because with immediate action that people need that road, we have asked the contractor to do the single lane that has been given to him.”
Mr. Clement Wilkinson the Ga West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE)
Urgency and Government Involvement
Highlighting the urgency of the road project, Wilkinson shared that the Vice President had recently visited the area. The visit was related to the inspection of a newly constructed children’s hospital, which will soon be completed.
According to the MCE, the Vice President instructed both him and the Regional Minister to expedite the road project.
“The Vice President was there last week… He asked me and the Regional Minister to speed up on that road.”
Mr. Clement Wilkinson the Ga West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE)
Mr. Wilkinson assured the people of Adjen Kotoku that the project would benefit not only the Onion Market traders but the entire community.
The Adjen Kotoko Onion Market has become a significant commercial hub in the Ga West Municipality. The market was developed to accommodate traders, especially onion sellers, who were relocated from Agbogbloshie in Accra to a more suitable and less congested location. As the main hub for onion trading in the region, the market is crucial for local commerce, and improving road access to this market is vital for both traders and customers.
Mr. Wilkinson’s updates on the road project highlight the importance of ensuring proper access to the market, which serves not only the local Adjen Kotoko community but also traders and buyers from other regions. As a key economic center, the successful completion of the road project will greatly enhance the market’s accessibility and commercial activities.
Timeline for Completion
When asked about the expected timeline for the project, Mr. Wilkinson assured the public that contractors would be seen on the road by the end of the month.
Mr. Wilkinson emphasized that necessary procurement processes were currently underway to ensure the project starts as soon as possible.
“Very soon, they will see a contractor on that road If I say soon, by at least by [the] end of this month, they will see a contractor on the road because we will have to do a proper procurement arrangement before the contractor can come on the road.”
Mr. Clement Wilkinson the Ga West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE)
In response to concerns about the condition of the road in the interim, Wilkinson advised market-goers and residents to exercise patience and caution. Mr. Wilkinson noted that there are alternative routes available, although these might not be as convenient as the main road.
“You see when we are going to Adjen Kotoko, we don’t have only that road. We have another road from [another location] to the road to [Adjen Kotoko].”
Mr. Clement Wilkinson the Ga West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE)
Moreover, Mr. Wilkinson acknowledged that some people might be unaware of these alternative routes, but stressed that for now, these are the best options until the main road is completed. Wilkinson further urged drivers to be cautious while navigating the current road, particularly around potholes and other obstacles.
“For the meantime, those who are driving from [different location] to [Adjen Kotoko], the only advice I’ll give now is because the contractor is coming on, it’s not a full road that we can just go there and restate the road.”
Mr. Clement Wilkinson the Ga West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE)
Mr. Wilkinson pleaded for patience from the public, adding that the contractors know how to manage the situation. He asserted ; “They should be in that patient [phase] for us; by the end of this month, they will see a contractor on the road.”
While acknowledging the challenges that come with road construction, he emphasized that the authorities were taking all necessary steps to ensure that the project is completed as soon as possible. In the meantime, Mr. Wilkinson encouraged road users to be mindful of their speed and the condition of the road. He noted; “They should take their time when they are driving, speeding, and I mean, hitting the potholes without effort.”
With the Vice President’s directive and the local government’s efforts, the road project in Adjen Kotoko is expected to be a significant improvement for the community. The MCE’s statement underscored the importance of infrastructure development in the area and the commitment of the authorities to ensuring that the project is delivered promptly. The completion of this road will be a critical step in ensuring the smooth operation of the Adjen Kotoko Onion Market and improving the livelihoods of those who depend on it.
