Communities along Wichiau-Burkina Faso Border Call for Urgent Road Repairs to Boost Connectivity and Livelihoods

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Residents of Kpanfa, Tuole, and Teemeh in the Wechiau electoral area of the Wa West District have voiced significant concerns over the deteriorating state of the border road connecting their communities to Burkina Faso. During an engagement with Info Radio, community members described the road as increasingly impassable, citing numerous waterlogged sections, potholes, and unsealed bridges that hinder daily activities and commerce.

The communities along the Wechiau to Burkina Faso route, particularly from Wechiau to Batie Market in Burkina Faso, have experienced mounting difficulties due to the road's poor condition. Several bridges, initially constructed when the road was first opened, remain uncovered, adding to safety risks for travelers and transporters alike. Residents appealed to the Wa West District Assembly to prioritize reshaping the road and covering the bridges to enhance safety, accessibility, and economic activity.

Residents emphasized that the current state of the road severely hampers their ability to conduct business, access healthcare, and engage in social activities. Moreover, travelers heading to Batie Market have begun avoiding the route altogether, further impacting local trade and mobility.

In response, Hon. Abudu Abu, the Assemblyman for the area, acknowledged the community’s grievances. He noted that the District Assembly's Disaster Risk Improvement Program (DRIP) machines had successfully reshaped the section from Wechiau to Kanto but without graveling. He stressed that the roads connecting Kpanfa, Teemeh, and Tuole also require urgent reshaping and graveling, as they are crucial corridors for local economic activities and cross-border trade.