Correspondence from the Eastern Region

A coalition of Krobo youth and development groups has officially notified the Ghana Police Service of their intention to embark on a peaceful demonstration on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, to protest the continued deplorable state of the Somanya–Odumase–Kpong road, a major transport artery linking key towns in the Yilo and Lower Manya Krobo municipalities of the Eastern Region.

The notice, addressed to the District Commanders of the Odumase-Krobo and Somanya police stations, was jointly signed by leaders of Kloma Hengme, Adolf Nomo, and the Dangme Youth for Development.

The groups expressed frustration over what they described as years of government neglect and unfulfilled promises regarding the reconstruction of the stretch, which serves as a lifeline for commuters, traders, students, and businesses across the Krobo area.

According to the letter, the groups had earlier planned a similar protest in July 2025 but suspended it following assurances from the Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Awatey, that the contractor would return to site by the first week of October 2025. The promise was made during a stakeholder meeting attended by Municipal Chief Executives, traditional leaders, and security agencies.

However, as of October 6, 2025, the groups say no contractor has returned to the site, and the road remains in a worsening condition marked by potholes, erosion, and traffic hazards.

The coalition stated that the October 14 demonstration will begin at 8:00 a.m. from the Somanya Roundabout, proceed through the Somanya–Odumase–Kpong stretch, and end at the Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Assembly at Odumase-Krobo, where a petition will be presented to authorities.

The organizers assured the police and the public that the protest would be peaceful and orderly, urging the Ghana Police Service to provide adequate security to ensure the safety of participants and commuters.

“We wish to assure you that this will be a peaceful and orderly demonstration,” the letter stated. “We count on the support of your office to ensure the safety of participants and the general public.”

Copies of the letter were sent to several key stakeholders, including the Eastern Regional Minister, the Regional and Divisional Police Commands, Members of Parliament for Yilo and Lower Manya Krobo, traditional authorities, market associations, transport unions, and political parties within the Krobo area.

Background of the Road Controversy

The 15km Somanya–Odumase–Kpong road, part of the main corridor connecting the Eastern Region to the Volta and Greater Accra regions, has been a long-standing source of public outcry. Construction works on the stretch have stalled repeatedly since the mid-2010s due to funding challenges and changes in contract supervision.

In 2018, portions of the road were re-gravelled, but the lack of sustained maintenance quickly rendered the work ineffective. By 2021, heavy rains had further deteriorated the stretch, causing frequent vehicular breakdowns and accidents.

Local residents and commercial drivers have since staged multiple protests, citing the road’s impact on transportation costs, economic activity, and access to healthcare and education.

Successive governments have pledged to rehabilitate the road. In 2023, the Ministry of Roads and Highways reportedly awarded a contract for reconstruction, but work has since stalled, with machinery removed from the site in December 2024.

The current impasse has reignited tensions among Krobo residents, who see the road’s condition as a symbol of regional neglect.

Details of the Planned Demonstration

Growing Frustration Among Residents

Residents have repeatedly voiced their discontent over the poor state of the Somanya–Kpong corridor, describing it as an economic and safety burden. Commercial drivers lament frequent vehicle damage, while traders say the poor road conditions have led to declining market activity as travelers avoid the route.

The upcoming demonstration reflects growing impatience among the Krobo populace, who say their livelihoods and safety are being undermined by government inaction.
With the October 14 protest now confirmed, all eyes will be on the government’s response—and whether the contractor will finally return to the site to bring relief to the long-suffering residents of Yilo and Lower Manya Krobo.