One person died and four others were injured in a serious crash involving two articulated trucks. The accident occurred late on Thursday, May 21, on the busy Cape Coast–Kumasi Highway near Assin Nsuta. This crash caused a temporary halt to traffic flow.
The initial investigation from the Central North Regional Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) points to a deep pothole as the cause. A Shackman articulated truck, carrying klinker from Takoradi to Kumasi, hit this pothole. The truck driver lost control. It then veered into the lane for oncoming traffic. There, it collided with another articulated truck, a Howo flatbed.
This accident happens at a time when Ghana's infrastructure, particularly its road network, faces significant pressure. The Cape Coast–Kumasi Highway is a vital artery for trade and transport. Poor road conditions can lead to costly delays and dangerous situations. The frequency of accidents involving heavy goods vehicles highlights the need for better road maintenance and stricter enforcement of traffic safety. Data from the National Road Safety Authority often points to vehicle mechanical failures and driver error as primary causes, often exacerbated by road deficiencies.
According to the Central North Regional MTTD, the Shackman truck, with registration number GX 3858-25, crashed into the rear of the Howo truck, registration GT 8837-23. Vincent Anamman Ofosu, 36, a passenger in the Shackman truck, was pronounced dead at the hospital. His wife, Bridget Dadzie, 25, and the Shackman truck driver, Gariba Daniel, 33, suffered severe injuries. They are receiving treatment at St. Francis Xavier Hospital in Assin Foso. The Howo truck driver, Yaya Latif, 38, and his mate, Issah Mohammed, also sustained injuries. They are being treated at the Assin Anyinabrim Health Clinic.
The accident has serious implications for road safety strategies in Ghana. Authorities will need to address the condition of major highways like the Cape Coast-Kumasi route. Increased vigilance on heavy vehicle maintenance and driver fatigue is also critical. The MTTD's ongoing investigation will determine if further action is needed regarding road authorities or vehicle operators. The public will be watching for measures to prevent similar tragic events.