The Chief of Fakwasi, Nana Amoako Gyampa (I), has taken a bold step to address a long-standing challenge facing his people by mobilizing residents for a communal labour exercise to construct a temporary wooden bridge over the River Tanfi. The initiative is aimed at easing the movement of people within the area, especially during the rainy season when communities are often cut off.
Fakwasi, a division under the Abease Traditional Council, relies heavily on the Tanfi crossing as the shortest link connecting towns such as Kumfia, Sabidi, Dinkra, and Droma to Abease through Komfourkrom. However, during periods of heavy rainfall, rising water levels submerge the wooden structure, making it impassable and forcing residents to take a much longer route through Atebubu and Prang before reaching Abease.
Speaking during the construction exercise, Nana Amoako Gyampa (I) emphasized that the provision of a standard bridge over the River Tanfi would significantly transform transportation and economic activities in the area. According to him, such infrastructure would facilitate easier movement between Abease, Fakwasi, Kumfia, Nkoranza, Techiman, and other major towns within the Bono East Region.
He further noted that improved access would enhance market opportunities for farmers, as agriculture remains the backbone of the local economy. The Fakwasihene added that a permanent bridge would also boost the operations of the proposed 24-hour economy market to be established at Zabrama, thereby contributing to economic growth within the traditional area.
The Chief lamented that the seasonal flooding of the river continues to disrupt business activities and endanger lives, stressing the urgent need for a lasting solution. On behalf of his people, he appealed to the Ghana Armed Forces, particularly the 48 Engineers Regiment, to assist in the construction of a durable steel bridge.
He also called on the Bono East Regional Minister to facilitate engagement with the appropriate state agencies to address the situation, noting that timely intervention would help safeguard lives and property. In addition, he suggested that equipment under the District Roads Improvement Programme (DRIP) could be deployed to improve the road network and make it motorable.
Nana Amoako Gyampa (I) explained that the community’s decision to construct the temporary wooden bridge was a demonstration of self-help and commitment to development while awaiting government intervention.
It would be recalled that during a working visit by Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, the Bono East Regional Minister in 2025, the Omanhene of Abease, HRM Obrempong Kru Takyi II, formally appealed for the construction of a permanent bridge over the River Tanfi to serve as a critical link between Abease and Fakwasi, as well as other surrounding communities.
Meanwhile, residents of Fakwasi, Kumfia, Sabidi, Dinkra, and Droma have joined the call on government and other stakeholders to urgently support the construction of a permanent bridge to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement across the area.
Story by Iddrisu Adam Afuli – Abease Traditional Council
