The Bongo District Assembly in Ghana's Upper East Region is struggling with funding constraints, affecting its ability to maintain and improve road infrastructure. Assembly Member for Namoo, Daniel Ayeta, has revealed that the Assembly lacks the funds to fuel its District Road Improvement Programme equipment. This has hindered efforts to fix potholes and improve roads linking communities within the Namoo area.
According to Mr Ayeta, he had sought permission from the Bongo District Chief Executive, Madam Diana Asoketarige Ayamga, to deploy the Assembly's road construction equipment for urgent road maintenance. However, Madam Ayamga reportedly stated that the Assembly did not have the necessary funds to fuel the equipment. This response has raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of roads in Namoo and its impact on residents, farmers, and other road users.
The Bongo-Balungu-Namoo road and its connecting communities have faced significant road challenges in the past. A 2022 report by the Ghana News Agency documented potholes and erosion affecting the Bongo-Balungu Bridge, describing the road as a major link serving communities including Balungu, Lungu, Sambolgo, Nayorigo, and Namoo. The condition of these roads continues to affect the movement of people and goods in the area.
The funding challenges faced by the Bongo District Assembly come at a time when the Assembly has been highlighting infrastructure and development interventions across the district. In June 2026, Madam Ayamga, who had been confirmed as Bongo DCE after receiving 44 of 54 votes, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate development in the district. She also emphasized the importance of prudent financial management and mobilisation of internally generated funds.
The lack of funds for road maintenance has significant implications for the district's development. Mr Ayeta is appealing for the necessary resources to be made available to enable the Assembly to deploy its DRIP equipment for urgent road maintenance. This, he believes, will improve accessibility between communities in Namoo and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
The Bongo District Assembly's experience highlights the challenges faced by local governments in Ghana in maintaining and improving infrastructure. The Assembly's inability to fund its DRIP equipment has significant implications for the district's development and the well-being of its residents. It is hoped that stakeholders will take note of the situation and provide the necessary support to address the funding challenges.
The situation in Bongo District is a reminder of the need for effective financial management and resource mobilisation at the local level. The Assembly's experience underscores the importance of collaboration and prudent financial management in meeting development needs.
Key points
- The Bongo District Assembly in Ghana's Upper East Region faces funding challenges for its District Road Improvement Programme equipment.
- The lack of funds has hindered efforts to fix potholes and improve roads linking communities within the Namoo area.
- The situation highlights the challenges faced by local governments in Ghana in maintaining and improving infrastructure.
