Editorial
Accelerate road projects to reduce gridlock
Many commuters have suffered as a result of the protracted delays in road construction projects, which have negatively impacted livelihoods, productivity, and health.
Even worse, numerous enormous potholes that have appeared on several of Accra’s main highways since the start of the rainy season are obstructing traffic flow around the city.
These potholes have a significant impact on maintenance costs because the majority of vehicles that use them break down frequently.
Areas most severely impacted are the Obetsebi Lamptey intersection, Nungua interchange, toll booths, SCC Junction, Atala, and the Ashaiman-Afienya route near Gbeetsile among others.
In reality, because of the numerous large potholes on the stretch drivers who use these roads are irritated, especially when there is a gridlock.
Sadly, due to the nation’s economic difficulties, the government’s IMF programme and debt restructuring, which have impacted funding and slowed down construction, have made the road’s poor condition worse.
The spectator is appealing with the authorities to speed up road construction so that commuters may reach their destinations on time since they are worried on the current state of affairs.
As a temporary measure potholes on some roadways can be patched by engineers to reduce traffic. For instance, the industrial area roundabout on Feo Oyeo Link near the New Times Corporation (NTC) has huge potholes which add to the traffic situation on that stretch.
We implore the government to make funds available for road projects to alleviate the suffering of commuters but these projects should be continuously monitored and maintained by trained experts to prevent degradation.
The Spectator is happy to hear that the 5.8-kilometre stretch from School Junction to the Tema Mortorway in the Greater Accra Region and the 22-kilometre stretch from Dodowa to Adenta would be finished by the end of the year.
It is also rather reassuring to learn that the 1.8 km stretch of road between Kwabenya and Agbogba has received approval and that resources are being assembled to enable a contractor to begin work as soon as possible.
We hope our Engineers will ensure that while building the roads, massive drainage systems that let water flow freely during times of intense rain are built in flood-prone locations to prevent floods.
In addition, bicycle lanes should all be included in road projects including walkways to avoid being knocked down by vehicles.
It is our strong desire that the authorities will expedite action to make these road projects a reality as soon as possible.
Editorial
Obtain license before practising traditional medicine
People suffer from a variety of health problems, and instead of consulting with medical professionals who are competent to treat them, they prefer to take various concoctions from unqualified people, which ultimately makes their condition worse.
The Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC) has expressed concern and warned practitioners of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine that neglect to obtain or renew their licenses from the council may be subject to legal action.
The Spectator is happy about this move because controlling Traditional Medicine Practice (TMP) will restore sanity to the system, as more and more people choose traditional rather than mainstream medicine.
The term “traditional medicine” describes the knowledge, abilities, and procedures utilised in the preservation of health as well as the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of physical and mental illness.
These methods are founded on the theories, beliefs, and life experiences that are native to many cultures.
The alert was sent out on August 31, on the occassion of African Traditional Medicine Day, which is observed every year. The World Health Organisation (WHO) created the Day in 2003 to honour the significance of traditional medicine in Africa and to encourage its incorporation into all of the continent’s national health systems.
According to the council, 70–80 per cent of people use herbal medicines as their major source of healthcare, making them the most widely used type of traditional medicine.
As to Section 9 of the TMPC Act, 2000 (Act 575), it is impermissible for an individual to manufacture herbal medicine for commercial purposes or run a business as a practitioner without first registering with the council.
In order to enhance public safety when administering herbal medications, it is crucial that herbal practitioners follow the Council’s recommendations and renew or obtain licenses from the organisation.
This is due to the fact that regulated practice would improve and promote the THPs’ meaningful participation in primary healthcare operations.
Most importantly, for millions of people, particularly in rural areas, traditional medicine and THPs are essential parts of the healthcare field.
Additionally, obtaining a license before practice will be extremely beneficial to herbalists as it will spare them from the harsh consequences of breaking the law.
The Spectator concurs with the Council that making safe and effective traditional medicines available could play a significant role in expanding access to healthcare services, as one-third of the population does not have access to vital medications.
Without a doubt, this will have a significant positive impact on Ghanaians’ health and wellbeing.
Whatever it may be, traditional medicine is here to stay and will continue to play a significant role in the healthcare systems of many communities, so the correct protocols must be followed to guarantee everyone’s safety.
Editorial
Construction of ‘Ayee Ayee Fee’ Avenue road in Akweteyman stalled
Dear Editor,
Residents of ‘Ayee Ayee Fee Avenue’, an area around Akweteyman in Accra are unhappy with the stalled road construction in the area.
The project, which began on a promising note, has been abandoned for months, leaving the road in a deplorable state.
The present state of the road has made its usage a nightmare for residents, commuters, and traders in the area.
The potholes and dust makes it difficult for vehicles to ply the road, while pedestrians risk their safety navigating the uneven terrain.
The lack of progress on the project has also created traffic congestion, air pollution, and economic hardship for local businesses.
It is unacceptable that the authorities have allowed this project to stall, despite the clear need for a safe and accessible road.
I implore the relevant authorities to take immediate action to complete the road construction on ‘Ayee Ayee Fee’ Avenue.
The community deserves a safe and reliable transportation infrastructure, and it is the responsibility of the authorities to deliver it.
Regular updates on the project’s progress, coupled with a clear plan for completion, can help restore confidence in the authorities’ ability to deliver on their promises.
Richmond Angel Mensah,
Accra.
