Culvert construction project for Essaman-Kakraba community in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality, Western Region, Ghana

Funding Agency: GlobalGiving Foundation /Cummins Ghana Limited

Funding Period: 2015-2016

This provided access to parts of the community and enabled children to cross a river, prone to seasonal flooding, to school safely. The construction of a sturdy bridge not only facilitated safe passage for the children but also significantly enhanced their daily commute to school. Prior to this development, the river posed a considerable risk, especially during the rainy season when the waters would swell, making it nearly impossible for young students to navigate their way across without fear of being swept away.

Workers assess a flooded construction site after heavy rainfall, identifying necessary repairs and ensuring safety in a rural area.

The new infrastructure has transformed the lives of these children, allowing them to arrive at school on time and without the anxiety that previously accompanied such a journey. It has also encouraged higher school attendance rates, as families can now feel more secure in sending their children to school, knowing that they can cross the river without encountering hazardous conditions. Furthermore, this bridge serves as a vital link not only for students but also for the entire community, connecting various neighborhoods and enabling easier access to essential services such as healthcare, markets, and recreational areas.

Inspection of a newly constructed culvert on a dirt road in a rural area, demonstrating progress in local infrastructure development.

This improvement in accessibility fosters a stronger sense of community, as it allows for more interaction among residents and supports local businesses by increasing foot traffic. In addition to the immediate benefits for education and community cohesion, the bridge symbolizes progress and development, showcasing the commitment to investing in infrastructure that prioritizes the safety and well-being of the younger generation. Overall, this enhancement of transportation routes has far-reaching implications, contributing to the overall growth and stability of the community as a whole.