Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Kwame Agbodza, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring efficient and timely payment for contractors working under the Big Push Infrastructure Project.
He gave the assurance during a sod-cutting ceremony at Sawla, where President John Dramani Mahama officially commenced construction on the Wenchi – Bola – Sawla – Wa road corridor.
Addressing contractors, traditional authorities, and community members, Hon. Agbodza emphasized that the Big Push Infrastructure Project has been structured to eliminate payment delays, one of the biggest challenges contractors have faced over the years.
“Under this project, when contractors work and raise certificates, even as soon as the following month—they will be paid,” he stated.
“There will be no need to calculate or demand interest on delayed payments because there will be no delays.”
He further explained that the government also has no need to provide advance mobilization because President Mahama’s administration has successfully cleared a significant portion of arrears owed to contractors.
“President John Dramani Mahama inherited outstanding contractor debts of almost GH₵30 billion.
He has already paid GH₵5 billion of that amount, and the same contractors are now back to work. The fear that you will work and not be paid will not happen under President Mahama,” Hon. Agbodza assured.
He pledged that contractors who raise certificates within the year would receive payments before the year’s end.
Hon. Agbodza highlighted that some contractors have already commenced concrete works along the corridor, signaling strong momentum behind the project.
He added that the completion of the Wenchi – Bola – Sawla – Wa road will directly support the President’s 24-Hour Economy agenda by unlocking vast economic potential within the Savannah and Upper West regions.
The Minister also addressed concerns regarding the Central Corridor — the Accra to Kumasi highway, noting that the Mahama government has continued the ongoing bypass construction without interruptions.
“When you assumed office, Mr. President, the bypass project was awarded at GH₵1.7 billion. Today, the variation is in excess of GH₵1.3 billion — which is yet to be captured in the national budget.
However, the Ministry and its agencies are working closely to determine a final cost so we can complete the Central Corridor,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Ministry of Roads and Highways’ commitment to fast-tracking key infrastructure across the country:
“Our agencies are working day and night to ensure these projects are completed for the benefit of the Ghanaian people.”
The sod-cutting ceremony marks a significant milestone in delivering improved transport connectivity and stimulating economic development across northern Ghana.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
