Youth of Benso in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality of the Western Region have taken the initiative to gravel a 200-kilometers stretch of their community roads, demonstrating their commitment to improving public health and wellbeing by reducing the spread of respiratory infections.
Benso Ahenkro, the traditional capital of the Wassa Fiase traditional area, boasts a rich cultural heritage, yet its approximately 20,000 residents face significant infrastructure challenges.
Despite repeated pleas, the community remains without a single kilometer of tarred road, a concern that has persisted through successive governments.
According to Physician Assistant at the Benso Community Clinic Francis Doe, the predominant health issue affecting residents is respiratory infections, primarily attributed to the community's perpetually dusty environment. "Apparently, the dusty environment here leads to numerous health issues, including frequent cough cases, upper respiratory conditions, and pneumonia.