The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has commended President John Dramani Mahama for sustaining inherited road projects, describing his approach as a departure from past practices.
Speaking during an inspection of the Kasoa–Winneba road project, the Minister noted that unlike previous administrations, the President has prioritised continuity in infrastructure development.
“In the past, other presidents would have walked away from this project, saying that they didn’t start it,” he said. “You directed that no road project you inherited should be suspended.”
According to him, government has already committed significant resources toward ongoing projects inherited from previous administrations.
“As of last month, you had paid over GH¢12 billion to projects you inherited. None of those monies were paid to projects you have actually started,” he stated, adding that this demonstrates a distinct leadership approach.
The Minister also highlighted the strategic importance of the Kasoa–Winneba corridor, describing it as a critical route for economic activity and daily commuting.
“This corridor is a very important corridor. The contractor is doing very well, the quality of work is very good,” he said, while praising the administration’s confidence in local contractors. “Your belief in the Ghanaian contractor to be able to fix our roads is unwavering.”
He stressed that the government’s investment in road infrastructure is creating jobs and supporting local industry. “You are creating jobs, creating access… and we are very grateful for what you are doing,” he added.
Touching on project timelines, Mr. Agbodza revealed that although the contract is expected to end in March 2027, efforts are underway to complete it ahead of schedule.
“We are working with the contractor to actually complete this project by the 31st of December this year ahead of schedule, and the contractor is committed to doing that,” he said.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by commuters, particularly on heavily congested sections of the road, but assured that relief is imminent.
“We appreciate the fact that people using this corridor go through a certain level of frustration but help is on the way,” he said. “We are not just leaving you in your misery… we are determined to shorten the contracting period.”
The Minister further disclosed that government has cleared outstanding payments to contractors working on ongoing projects, boosting confidence within the sector.
“As of today, every contractor who has raised a work certificate has been settled. We don’t owe anybody one cedi,” he stated, emphasizing government’s commitment to its “Big Push” infrastructure agenda.
He concluded by reaffirming the administration’s ambition to deliver unprecedented investment in Ghana’s road network.
“We want to thank you very much for your commitment to make sure that in our lifetime Ghana’s road network can see the highest and the biggest investment ever,” he said.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
