Frustration is boiling over in Nyariga as users of the Zaare-Nyariga road in Ghana’s Upper East Region call out construction firm J.K. Amana and Sons Ltd. for turning a key road into a hazard zone.
Residents and commuters are decrying the contractor’s negligence, which they say has led to a string of accidents — some leaving victims with lifelong injuries.
A visit to the area by Newsnetgh.com on Thursday, April 10, 2025, revealed alarming scenes: large piles of gravel and sand left unattended in the middle of the road for months, narrowing passageways and endangering lives.
Mr. Emmanuel Akurigo, a regular user of the road, is one of the many injured due to the unsafe conditions.
“This was where I wounded my leg,” he said, pointing to a patch of gravel. “Two motor riders tried overtaking me but lost control due to the sand and crashed into me. I’ve not been able to walk properly since.”
Commercial tricycle rider, Mr. Akata Ayamga, added that such accidents are a near-daily occurrence. “Just last week, a woman fell on the gravel with her baby. It’s even worse at night. People are getting hurt all the time,” he lamented.
The situation has sparked outrage among locals, with many accusing the contractor of playing politics with their safety. Some referenced the removal of culverts during the 2024 rainy season without proper diversion routes — a decision that reportedly led to even more chaos.
“The contractor came back just before the elections in December, fixed the culverts quickly, then vanished again,” said tricycle rider John Aniah. “We’re tired. If he can’t finish the job, give it to someone who will.”
The Assemblyman for the Nyariga Electoral Area, Hon. Joe Abekaabe, confirmed receiving multiple complaints. He acknowledged the severity of the issue and expressed confidence in newly appointed Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Akamugri, and Bongo DCE, Hon. Joe Akasake, to take swift action.
“This road forms part of the Bolga-Zorkor-Sirigu stretch — it’s too important to be neglected like this. But I have hope in the new leadership. They understand development and will act,” he stated.
Awarded in 2024 and funded by the Ghana Road Fund, the 0.01–3.00 km Zaare-Nyariga feeder road was meant to improve connectivity and ease transportation. However, progress has stalled, and the community says the price is being paid in blood and broken bones.
As residents continue to demand accountability, pressure is mounting on the government to intervene — either by compelling J.K. Amana and Sons Ltd. to complete the project or by handing it over to a more competent contractor.
“The gravel is killing us,” said a fed-up resident. “We need action — not excuses.”
