As a road grader rumbled steadily along the dusty Weisi–Sandema–Chuchuliga stretch, turning sand and gravel into a smoother path, 40-year-old Hawua Ibrahim sat quietly by the roadside, watching with visible relief. 

For years, she had endured the harsh realities of trading along the road—thick dust clouds, poor accessibility, and dwindling customer flow.

Now that construction equipment is finally back on site, hope is being restored.

Hawua, a mother of nine and a shea butter seller, described the development as long overdue.

“We have suffered for many years,” she said. 

“The dust alone is enough to make you sick. But today, seeing the machines working again gives me hope that things will change.”

The Weisi–Sandema–Chuchuliga road, which has remained deteriorated for nearly 8 years since abandonment, is now set to receive a bitumen surface under the government’s “Big Push Agenda.” 

The inauguration of the project on April 9, 2026, marks a significant turning point for residents and commuters who have long relied on the stretch for their daily activities.

Speaking at the project site, the Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr Clement Apaak, emphasised the strategic importance of the road. 

He noted that beyond easing transportation challenges, the road serves as a vital link for the movement of agricultural produce. 

“Builsa South is known as a food basket,” he stated. “This road is critical not just for the people here, but for the entire supply chain of food distribution.”

Dr Apaak further revealed that sustained engagement with the Roads Minister played a key role in reviving the project. 

According to him, assurances from the ministry and the availability of funding have paved the way for the contractor, MyTurn Limited, to return to the site and resume work in earnest.

For residents like Abenpaa-Lie Achaab, a mother of five, the development brings renewed optimism. 

Standing near the construction area, she expressed cautious excitement. “We are happy to see the contractor back,” she said. “But we pray they complete it this time. We have waited too long.”

The road’s abandonment had previously been attributed to financial constraints, a situation that left the contractor unable to proceed. 

However, Donald Yeribu, the project’s road engineer, assured the community that such setbacks have now been addressed. 

“The major issue before was lack of funds,” he explained.

“But with the assurance from the MP and the release of funds, we are committed to completing the project.

This road will have a proper bitumen surface.”

The resumption of work has already begun to change the atmosphere in the area.

Traders, farmers, and transport operators are all anticipating improved economic activity once the road is completed. Reduced travel time, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and better market access are among the expected benefits.

For Hawua Ibrahim and many others, the slow movement of the grader is more than just construction; it is a symbol of long-awaited progress