Schoolchildren in Midie, Ada East District, Greater Accra Region, daily brave a dangerous journey through thick mud and stagnant water to attend school. They carry their school bags and shoes, walking barefoot on a slippery path. Young children often need help from older siblings or friends to cross the treacherous stretch.
This difficult 50-meter section of road connects Midie to Aminapa. It leads to Aminapa D/A Basic School, the only nearby school for the community's children. The road becomes almost impassable during the rainy season. Residents have reported that a child previously lost her life on this same road under similar conditions. Parents worry about their children's safety and the impact on school attendance.
The situation reflects a broader challenge of inadequate infrastructure in parts of Ghana. Many rural and peri-urban communities struggle with basic road access. This often hinders access to essential services like education and healthcare. Unfulfilled infrastructure promises from political leaders are a recurring theme in many areas. Previous administrations made some improvements, but the most critical section remains neglected.
Thomas Korley, a resident and parent, expressed deep disappointment. He stated that political leaders have repeatedly promised road repairs but delivered nothing lasting. "It has not been easy even for adults to use the road, not to talk of schoolchildren who cross it every day to go to school,” he said. He added that the local Member of Parliament only makes promises.
Isaiah Korle, another resident, echoed these sentiments. He mentioned appeals to the assembly member, district chief executive, and the MP have gone unanswered. "They keep telling us they will come, but nothing happens. What if our children die while trying to cross the stream?” he questioned. The community also lacks a junior high school. Students must travel about three kilometers to Togbloku or Pute for further education.
The poor road conditions also disrupt economic activities. Angel Esther, a local salt miner, explained that buyers often avoid Midie due to the road's state, especially in the rainy season. Transporting goods to markets is also difficult. Commercial motorbike riders are hesitant to use the route. Salt miners sometimes need to hire tractors to move their produce to market, incurring extra costs.
The Assembly Member for the area, Mr. Prosper Tetteh Puplampu, acknowledged the issues. He confirmed that efforts are underway for immediate temporary solutions. He has asked the district chief executive and MP for gravel to fill the dangerous section. The MP has directed that gravel be sent to temporarily fix the situation before Sunday. This is pending a larger road construction project.