Editorial
Traffic light crisis in Koforidua: Urgent action needed to ensure road safety
● Traffic lights at Koforidua
Our country relies on a well-functioning traffic management system, including traffic lights, to ensure the smooth flow of vehicles and motorcycles.
Lately, we have observed a rising concern, especially in Koforidua, the capital of the Eastern region, regarding the alarming state of our traffic lights.
The malfunctioning traffic lights have not only disrupted the flow of traffic but also become a significant contributor to accidents on our roads. The safety of our citizens is at stake, and urgent action is needed to address this pressing issue.
Specifically, I draw attention to the dire condition of several traffic lights in Koforidua, such as those at Poly Junction, Kenkey Factory Junction, Capital View Hotel, and the other crucial intersections.
These traffic lights are in a state of disrepair, posing a grave danger to motorists and pedestrians alike.
Take, for example, the situation at Poly Junction, a bustling intersection in Koforidua. The traffic lights at this location have been non-functional for a considerable period, leaving drivers and pedestrians in a state of uncertainty.
Those approaching from the Poly road are left clueless about when to stop or proceed as the lights remain inoperative.
The absence of any traffic signal on this path has resulted in a haphazard and potentially hazardous scenario. Vehicles only move when drivers from Okorase and Adweso halt their progress.
Such a situation not only hampers the efficiency of our transportation system but also increases the risk of accidents. It is imperative that the relevant authorities take swift action to rectify this situation before a preventable disaster occurs.
Repairing or replacing these malfunctioning traffic lights should be an urgent priority, and regular maintenance must be part of the plan to prevent further breakdowns.
I earnestly beseech the responsible authorities to ensure that all traffic lights within the Koforidua Township function properly. The safety of our citizens, as well as the efficient flow of traffic, relies on these vital components of our road infrastructure.
Prompt and sustained action is crucial to maintain and enhance the safety and functionality of our traffic management system.
By George Obeng Osei
Koforidua
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.
