Ashalaja roads in terrible state

Dear Editor

I am writing to bring attention to the bad roads in Ashalaja and its surrounding areas.

It has become a concern for residents and commuters alike.

The state of our roads does not only affects daily travel but also poses significant safety risks and hampers local economic activities.

Over the past few months, the condition of the roads has worsened considerably.

Potholes have become a common sight, making navigation difficult and dangerous, especially during the rainy season when water collects in these potholes that are gradually becoming ‘manholes.’

This has led to numerous accidents, with both vehicles and pedestrians suffering the consequences.

Many drivers are forced to swerve dangerously to avoid these hazards, putting themselves and others at risk.

Moreover, the poor road conditions have a direct impact on local businesses.

Delivery trucks struggle to reach their destinations, leading to delays and increased transportation costs.

This does not only affect the profitability of local enterprises but also limits the availability of goods and services for residents.

The economic effect is felt by all, particularly in a community that relies heavily on small businesses for its livelihood.

I urge the authorities to prioritise the repair of these roads to improve living conditions of people in Ashalaja and its environs.

Benedicta Gyimaah Folley,

Ashalaja

Free sanitary pads distribution a game-changer

Dear Editor,

I wish to use your medium to commend the government of John Dramani Mahama for implementing the bold government policy to provide sanitary pads free of charge for girls.

The National Sanitary Pad Distribution Programme is one that will end the trend where young girls miss school during their menstruation periods because their parents cannot afford sanitary pads.

This is a clear interpretation of the president’s call to create and share the national resources.

The use of sanitary pads is seen in certain quarters as a preserve for the well-to-do in society. In some societies, it is pathetic seeing girls of menstruation age use old-fashioned methods to manage it.

For health and safety reasons, it is important to make sure that our girls are provided with decent material to manage their flows in comfortable and convenient ways.

The project marks an end to the era where mothers provide their daughters with cloth and tissue.

Without doubt, buying sanitary pads for two or three daughters or female relations staying with you can be very challenging sometimes due to the harsh economic conditions.

But this policy is a game-changer. What it means is that the cost has been taken by government.

For some of us parents, it is one of the ways to directly enjoy the little taxes we pay. I say well done to the government and hope that more of such social interventions would be rolled out to make life comfortable for the ordinary Ghanaian.

Lady Akushika,

Amanfrom

Editorial

Shedding light on Camara, a growing but overlooked suburb in Dansoman

Dear Editor,

I write to use your respected platform to bring attention to Camara, a small but growing suburb tucked within the Dansoman area of Accra.

For many, the name ‘Camara’ may not ring a bell and that is exactly the problem.

Though we are part of the vibrant Dansoman community, Camara is often forgotten when it comes to development, infrastructure, and public services.

This is a neighbourhood filled with potential: families, students, small businesses, and workers who contribute daily to Accra’s social and economic life.

Yet our roads remain untarred, streetlights and public facilities are few.

Security has become a growing concern, especially in the poorly lit areas.

Making Camara known is not about gaining attention for its own sake. It is about ensuring that we benefit from the development efforts enjoyed by other townships.

We need Proper street naming and signage to officially recognize the area, inclusion in municipal development plans, installation of streetlights and improved security patrols, road infrastructure and sanitation improvements, opportunities for youth engagement and education.

We deserve to be seen, heard, and supported. I appeal to urban planners, and the wider community to recognize Camara as part of the future of Dansoman.

Eugene Ampiaw,

Camara