Youth stage protest over deteriorated Kulaa bridge section of Bolga–Bawku road
Residents give government a five-day ultimatum to deploy equipment to improve conditions on the deteriorating stretch
Frustration over the poor condition of roads in the Upper East Region has sparked a protest by residents demanding urgent government intervention.
On April 10, 2026, demonstrators dressed in red marched from the Bolgatanga East District into the Bolgatanga Municipality to register their displeasure over the deteriorating state of the Bolgatanga–Bawku–Pulmakom road, particularly around the Kulaa area.
Holding placards with inscriptions such as “Fix Bolga roads now,” “The road is killing us,” “We breathe dust,” and “Stop the lip service,” the protesters called attention to what they say is prolonged neglect of critical roads in the region.
Leader of the group, Paul Honkani, said the continued delay in completing the road project has placed a heavy burden on motorists and residents who rely on the route for daily activities.
He noted that the Bolgatanga–Bawku–Pulmakom road is not only vital for local transportation but also serves as an important corridor connecting Ghana to neighbouring countries including Burkina Faso, Niger and Togo.
The protesters also expressed concern that the road project has not been included in the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure programme, despite its strategic importance.
Beyond the international highway, residents highlighted challenges on the Zuarungu–Bolgatanga road, especially the stretch between the Timber Market and the bridge, which they say becomes extremely dusty in the dry season and almost impassable during heavy rains.
According to the group, the deteriorating road conditions have led to frequent accidents, respiratory problems caused by dust, and increased vehicle maintenance costs.
They are therefore demanding immediate action from the government to rehabilitate the Bolgatanga–Bawku–Pulmakom road, particularly near the Timber Market and the Kulaa Bridge.
The demonstrators say the road has remained in a deplorable condition since February 2023 and have given authorities a five-day ultimatum to deploy a grader and water tanker to help ease the situation.
The group warned that if their concerns are not addressed by April 16, 2026, they will organise additional demonstrations.
Protesters also criticised the absence of the Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, and the Bolgatanga East District Chief Executive, Jacob Abugre Aka-eri, who were expected to receive their petition.
However, Upper East Regional Deputy Police Commander, ACP Joseph Darison Wusi, addressed the gathering and explained that the regional minister was unavailable. He assured the demonstrators that their petition would be delivered to the appropriate authorities.
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