The Berekum Municipality in the Bono Region of Ghana is grappling with a severe fuel shortage, causing significant distress among commercial drivers and tricycle riders. This scarcity has crippled transportation services, leaving many vehicles parked idly at fuel stations. During a visit by the Ghana News Agency (GNA), it was observed that only a single pump out of ten at a typical station had petrol and diesel available, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Drivers and tricycle riders, already struggling with the economic downturn, expressed frustration and suspicion that some fuel stations might be hoarding petroleum products in anticipation of price hikes. This alleged practice further exacerbates the crisis, leaving many unable to earn their livelihoods and hindering the overall economic activity within the Municipality. The shortage, which reportedly began on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, has prompted calls for government intervention to address the pressing issue and alleviate the hardship faced by the transportation sector. While pump attendants remained tight-lipped about the shortage, the drivers and riders continue to bear the economic brunt of the crisis.
Beyond the fuel crisis, the Berekum Municipality faces another growing concern: the rampant use and peddling of Indian hemp, commonly known as “weed.” Residents have voiced alarm over the open sale and consumption of this illicit substance, particularly within the Central Business District (CBD). The brazen nature of these activities, even occurring in broad daylight, has raised fears about the escalating drug problem and its potential consequences for the community. Traders and residents alike have appealed to law enforcement agencies for immediate action to curb this menace and restore a sense of security to the area. The situation, they say, is especially dire during the night, with the CBD becoming a hub for drug-related activity.
The fuel shortage has brought transportation in the Berekum Municipality to a near standstill. The limited availability of fuel at only one in ten pumps has resulted in long queues and frustration among drivers and riders, who rely heavily on these services for their income. The suspicion of hoarding by fuel stations, coupled with the lack of clear communication from authorities, has exacerbated anxieties. The economic impact of this shortage is palpable, impacting not only the transportation sector but also the broader community that relies on it for movement of goods and people. This crisis underscores the vulnerability of the local economy to disruptions in fuel supply and the urgent need for a reliable and transparent system of fuel distribution.
The escalating drug problem, particularly involving Indian hemp, presents another significant challenge for the Berekum Municipality. The open sale and consumption of “weed” within the CBD, even during daylight hours, paints a concerning picture of the growing normalization of drug use and the potential for increased crime and social disorder. Residents fear for the safety and well-being of their community, particularly the younger generation who are exposed to this illicit activity. The lack of visible police presence and effective law enforcement action contributes to the sense of lawlessness and empowers those involved in the drug trade.
The concurrent crises of fuel shortage and rampant drug use paint a grim picture of the challenges facing the Berekum Municipality. The economic hardship caused by the fuel scarcity impacts the livelihoods of many, while the proliferation of drug use threatens the social fabric of the community. The lack of clear communication and effective responses from authorities further aggravates the situation, fueling public frustration and anxiety. These interconnected challenges highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to address both the immediate economic concerns and the long-term social issues impacting the Municipality.
The situation in Berekum calls for urgent action from both local and national authorities. The fuel shortage requires immediate intervention to ensure a stable supply of petroleum products and prevent economic collapse within the transportation sector. Investigating claims of hoarding and ensuring fair pricing are crucial steps in addressing this crisis. Furthermore, a concerted effort is needed to combat the growing drug problem, including increased police patrols, community engagement, and educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. Addressing these intertwined challenges effectively is essential for restoring stability, promoting economic growth, and ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents of Berekum Municipality.
