In a bid to tackle Ghana's persistent road maintenance challenges, the Ministry of Roads and Highways has launched an innovative initiative that puts reporting power in the hands of citizens.
The new "Maintain My Road" program, unveiled last Monday in Accra, introduces both a smartphone app and a dedicated call center. This dual approach aims to streamline the process of reporting road defects, potentially leading to faster repairs and improved road conditions across the country.
"We're leveraging technology to transform how we maintain our roads," said Roads Minister Francis Asenso-Boakye at the launch event. "This initiative will enhance public engagement and enable citizens to contribute directly to maintenance efforts."
The smartphone app, available for both Android and iOS devices, allows users to upload photos and descriptions of road issues, tagging the exact location using GPS. For those without smartphones, the call center provides an alternative reporting method, operating weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Initially, the program will focus on major trunk roads and urban centers in Accra-Tema, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Tamale during a five-month pilot phase. The ministry has allocated 60% of the Road Fund maintenance budget to support this initiative, signaling a significant commitment to addressing critical maintenance needs.
Asenso-Boakye highlighted the importance of road infrastructure to Ghana's economy, noting that over 90% of goods and services in the country are transported by road. He also promised upcoming maintenance work on key routes, including the Accra-Kumasi highway and the Accra-Tema Motorway.
The "Maintain My Road" program represents a shift towards more proactive and citizen-involved road maintenance in Ghana. As the pilot progresses, it will be interesting to see how this digital approach impacts the country's ongoing struggle with road upkeep.
For now, Ghanaians in the pilot areas are encouraged to download the app or save the call center number. With this new system in place, reporting that pothole or damaged road sign might just be a few taps away.
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