The Eastern Regional Minister, , has touted the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) as a significant milestone that will improve the road infrastructure within the region and improve the lives of its people. "Our roads are the lifeblood of communities, which the government has given a significant boost to today. They connect our towns and villages, facilitate the movement of people, goods, and services, and are vital to the economic and social development of our region," he said. He made these statements at the commissioning of road construction equipment which was delivered to the region under the DRIP initiative to help improve road networks within the districts in the Eastern Region. He said, "Some of our roads have been in deplorable conditions for some time, hindering access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential services, especially in our rural areas." The minister pointed out that the handing over of the equipment, which includes motor graders, bulldozers, backhoes, and tipper trucks, among other machines, will empower the assemblies to maintain and improve the road network within their respective jurisdictions. He tasked the assemblies to ensure that the machines are utilized efficiently, as their success depends on collective commitment, proper planning, diligent maintenance, and accountability in their use, while urging the assemblies to engage with the communities to understand the needs and prioritise road projects that will have the most impact.