Bamenda’s crumbling road network continues to pose serious risks, with yet another accident highlighting the urgent need for action. Earlier, on February 13, 2025, a lorry transporting wood skidded off the road near New Road Junction in Bamenda II, damaging properties and crushing a parked Toyota Yaris. Fortunately, no lives were lost. Eyewitnesses blame the poor state of the road for the accident. “From one pothole to another, vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians struggle to navigate, swerving dangerously from one side to the other,” one resident lamented.
Bike riders, who are primarily affected by the deteriorating roads, characterise their daily struggle as a terrifying experience. “Every day, we risk our lives. The potholes are deep, and avoiding them means weaving through unpredictable traffic,” Jeff, a commercial rider, shared.
Despite repeated promises of road construction and rehabilitation, little progress has been seen. The city’s roads remain riddled with potholes, causing traffic congestion and frequent accidents.
“There are so many accidents on the road, not because of reckless driving but because of the bad state of the roads,” said Christian, another bike rider in Bamenda.
Many residents now fear that if urgent measures are not taken, the next incident could claim lives.
“Are the authorities waiting for the roads to start claiming lives before they react? Questions Jeff
On her part, a roadside vendor said, “I am scared each time I see a car coming because it can fall”. Falling cars are becoming a regular occurrence due to the poor nature of the road” she added.
Frustration among Bamenda’s inhabitants continues to grow. Will this serve as a catalyst for the government to finally address the escalating road crisis in the city? Only time will tell.
