Living all my life in Damongo-Zongo has been one of my greatest achievements. This isn’t due to any material wealth or grandiose accomplishments, but because of the profound sense of community and friendship that permeates the area. The cordial relationships among the people of Damongo-Zongo have always been a source of pride and strength. However, in recent days, this sense of security and togetherness has been overshadowed by growing fear and panic. The cause? The severe lack of adequate road infrastructure in our community.
Damongo-Zongo is one of the areas in Damongo without a single road connecting us to the main thoroughfares. This situation is not just appalling but also uncalled for, especially in this age where connectivity is crucial for the socio-economic development of any community. The absence of major roads has left us isolated, affecting our access to essential services and opportunities for growth.
Historically, the main road serving Damongo-Zongo ran through the Ndewura Jakpa Senior High School, providing vital access to the town and essential services such as healthcare. However, the recent construction of a fence wall around the school has effectively cut off our community from these critical amenities. This disconnection has had far-reaching consequences, leaving residents struggling to access healthcare, education, and other essential services.
The current state of our road network or lack thereof poses significant challenges. Without proper roads, emergency services struggle to reach us in times of need. Residents find it difficult to travel for work, education, or healthcare. This isolation has fostered a sense of neglect and abandonment, further exacerbating the challenges faced by our community.
The youth of Damongo-Zongo, in particular, feel the brunt of this infrastructural deficit. Without reliable roads, young people find it harder to access educational institutions, limiting their opportunities for personal and professional development. Moreover, the lack of infrastructure discourages businesses from setting up in our area, stifling economic growth and job creation.
In light of these challenges, we, the youth of Damongo-Zongo, are making a special appeal to the authorities. We urgently need at least three or four entrances to our community to ensure better connectivity and accessibility. These entrances are not just for convenience but are essential for emergencies, ensuring that help can reach us swiftly when needed.
We propose that the existing fence wall of Ndewura Jakpa Senior High School be modified to include gates that provide access to the Zongo Central Mosque and through to the main road. It is interesting to note that the struggle for water by students of NDESCO is not a hidden issue and sometimes their only source of rescue is the wells within the Zongo community. When these gates are open, they will restore our connection to vital social amenities, such as healthcare and educational facilities. Additionally, constructing new roads that directly connect Damongo-Zongo to the main thoroughfares of Damongo would significantly improve the quality of life for all residents.
Improving the road infrastructure in Damongo-Zongo would have a transformative impact on our community. It would enhance access to essential services, stimulate economic growth, and foster a greater sense of inclusion and connectivity. Furthermore, it would demonstrate a commitment to equitable development, ensuring that no community is left behind.
In conclusion, the current road infrastructure crisis in Damongo-Zongo is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. The lack of proper roads has left our community isolated and struggling to access essential services. We, the youth of Damongo-Zongo, appeal to the authorities to address this issue urgently by providing multiple entrances and constructing new roads. By doing so, we can ensure a brighter, more connected future for all residents of Damongo-Zongo. It is time for action, and we hope our plea will be heard and acted upon promptly.
By: ADAMU YUSSIF ZOMNRA,
Concerned Youth Of Zongo
