Torrential rains have once again destroyed the Zingu culverts along the Zingu-Wa road in the Wa Municipality, barely months after they were reportedly completed under the Gulf of Guinea Northern Ghana Social Cohesion (SOCO) project.
This marks the second time the culverts, valued at GH₵1.2 million, have been washed away by floodwaters, prompting serious concerns about the quality and resilience of infrastructure delivered under the government-backed initiative.
Residents of Zingu and surrounding communities have been left stranded, as the damaged road now poses significant challenges to transport, access to healthcare, and trade. Local commuters, particularly farmers and traders, say the situation has disrupted their livelihoods and exposed them to greater risk during emergencies.
The SOCO project, aimed at promoting social cohesion and improving infrastructure in northern Ghana, has come under scrutiny following the repeated failure of the culverts. Community members are now demanding a thorough investigation into the quality of materials used and the level of supervision during construction.
“This is a huge disappointment. We were told the project was completed, yet every heavy rain wipes it out,” said a visibly frustrated resident. “We need answers, and we need a more permanent solution.”
Local authorities have yet to issue an official response, though engineers are expected to assess the site in the coming days. Meanwhile, calls are growing for stronger oversight and accountability to prevent further wastage of public resources under the SOCO project.