Residents of Yiwabra and surrounding communities in the Aowin Municipality are in distress following the collapse of the 86-year-old Disue Bridge, a critical link over the River Disue that connects the Western North Region to parts of the Western Region.
The bridge, which connected Enchi to some nearby communities around Samreboi and served smaller towns like Domeabra, Ohiamadwen, and Omanpe, caved in after years of deterioration and neglect. Its collapse has left hundreds of residents cut off from schools, health facilities, and markets.
With the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) just three days away, there are growing concerns that candidates may not be able to reach examination centers.
“This was our only road to nearby towns. Now our BECE students may not write their exams, and our farmers are stuck with their crops,” said Stephen Kofie, Assembly Member for the Yiwabra Electoral Area.
Residents say they have made several complaints about the dangerous condition of the bridge, but no action was taken. They noted that the Member of Parliament for the area, Oscar Larbi, visited the site but has since failed to follow up with support or a solution.
“Our students, our sick people, and our farmers are now all stuck,” Mr. Kofie added.
Cocoa farmers, in particular, are bearing the brunt of the situation. Without access to transport routes, they are unable to move their produce to market, which may lead to serious financial losses.
The Chief of Yiwabra, Nana Kwabena, has described the situation as a crisis and called on the government to intervene immediately.
“Cocoa is our main source of income. Without this bridge, our economy is in trouble. The government must act now,” he urged.
Nana Ankamah Tano, another elder in the community, emphasized that the issue goes beyond education and the economy.
“This is not just about school or money. It’s about health, safety, and our way of life,” he said.
In the meantime, residents have resorted to using dangerous makeshift paths to access nearby communities. Despite the growing emergency, no official statement had been issued by authorities—until now.
However, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Aowin, Stephen Morcher, has assured the community of immediate intervention. According to him, steps are being taken to begin repair works as soon as possible.
“The situation is urgent, and we are taking all the necessary steps to address it quickly. We will not allow our students and farmers to suffer,” the MCE said.
