Refurbished Kotokuom Bridge Commissioned after social media outcry

The refurbished Kotokuom Bridge in the Atwima Mponua District has officially been commissioned, with government officials describing it as a restored lifeline that brings safety, renewed hope, and economic relief to residents.

Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways and Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, who represented the sector Minister, Kwame Governs Agbodza, said the bridge’s completion was a direct response to the pleas of citizens after disturbing images of its dangerous state went viral.

“Your voices were heard, and your concerns became our command,” Mr. Suhuyini assured during the ceremony held at the Kotokuom R/C Park on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. “Governance is not a distant activity but a responsive partnership with the people we serve. What was once a site of fear and anxiety now stands before us strong, secure, and safe.”

He explained that the project forms part of the government’s Big Push Agenda to expand road and bridge infrastructure across the country, stressing that no community would be left behind. He further called on residents to take ownership of the new bridge and protect it for future generations.

Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, reminded the gathering that President John Dramani Mahama had earlier promised to fix the bridge after its deplorable state was exposed on social media. He urged residents to use the facility responsibly.

District Chief Executive for Atwima Mponua, Ibrahim Issahak, highlighted the severe hardships farmers, traders, and commuters faced when the old structure restricted the movement of heavy-duty vehicles, which disrupted cocoa trade and other economic activities.

He expressed gratitude to President Mahama, the Roads and Highways Ministry, the Regional Coordinating Council, Assembly members, traditional leaders, and residents for their collective support in making the project a reality.

Traditional rulers, government officials, Assembly members, and residents attended the ceremony, celebrating the refurbished bridge as a long-awaited relief that will improve mobility, enhance trade, and expand access to essential services.