Yagbonwura, Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale (I), the esteemed king of the Gonja Kingdom and president of the Savannah Regional House chiefs has expressed his deep concern over the Doli Bridge catastrophe, urging swift action in response to the desperate pleas of his people.
The king who is profoundly affected by the damage and hardships caused by the bridge’s collapse due to heavy rainfall on 17th September, 2023, sent a delegation of five paramount chiefs from the Gonja Kingdom led by Sonyowura Kanyiti (I) on Wednesday September 20, 2023 to Doli to assess the severity of the situation.
The Yagbonwura in his statement acknowledged and commended the Minister for Roads and Highways, the Savannah Regional Minister, the District Chief Executive for the Bole District and the Member of Parliament for Bole – Bamboi Constituency for promptly visiting the affected area and addressing the challenges, emphasizing that their presence demonstrated a commitment to understanding the difficulties faced by the people.
While appreciating their swift response, the king fervently appealed to the government to expedite the reconstruction of the Doli Bridge, emphasizing that the bridge is not just a local route but a vital highway connecting the north and south of the country and also serving as an international road linking Ghana to Burkina Faso and Mali, thereby facilitating regional trade and international relations.
According to the Yagbonwura, the disruption of that crucial transportation link has inconvenienced citizens, disrupted regional and international trade, and imperiled the integrity of that significant transportation corridor.
Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto further implored the Hon. Minister for Roads and Highways to expedite the necessary measures and resources to restore the bridge to a stronger and more resilient state.
In this trying moment, the king called for unity among the people to alleviate the suffering of the affected communities and ensure the smooth flow of goods, services, and travelers along that strategic route and made a passionate appeal to drivers and transport unions, both within and outside the region to consider the plight of passengers who are experiencing increased transport fares due to longer routes.
Recognizing their reputation for brotherly love, the king urged them to be considerate during this natural disaster.
The Yagbonwura concluded his message by emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in overcoming such a challenge and rebuilding what has been lost, ensuring the continued prosperity of the region.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
