Wa-Sawla road traders demand alternative business sites

Traders and business owners along the Wa-Sawla road in the Upper West Region are appealing to the government for alternative trading spaces before their current structures are demolished for a major road dualisation project. The Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) has established a deadline of late October 2026 for the removal of all affected structures along the 25-kilometre project site. This infrastructure initiative is designed to improve transport links and includes the construction of modern drainage systems and culverts.

The dualisation project officially commenced in January 2026 and is scheduled for completion within a 36-month timeframe. Damadi Lavestone, the Upper West Regional Director of Highways, indicated that the project is progressing steadily but emphasized that clearing the right-of-way is essential for the contractor to maintain the construction schedule. The highway authorities maintain that the dualisation is a critical development for the region's transport network.

While the affected traders have voiced their support for the road expansion, they are deeply concerned about the absence of a clear relocation plan to sustain their livelihoods. Many business owners have pointed out that they lack alternative locations to continue their trade once the October deadline passes. They are urging the government and local authorities to designate temporary or permanent market spaces to ensure their businesses survive during the construction period.