President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that approximately 90 per cent of contractors executing projects under the government’s Big Push infrastructure programme are Ghanaian, reaffirming the government’s commitment to engaging local contractors in major road construction projects.
He made the disclosure during an inspection of ongoing construction works on the Tepa-Goaso Road, where he commended Kofi Job for his performance and ability to execute projects within the expected timeframe.
“When you look at the contractors working on the Big Push programme, about 90 per cent are Ghanaian contractors, while only 10 per cent are foreign contractors,” President Mahama said.
He described Kofi Job as one of the contractors with the capacity to undertake and complete major infrastructure projects, explaining that the government had awarded him additional contracts after he completed previously assigned projects.
“When I launched the Big Push programme, I told the contractors that those who completed their projects ahead of schedule would be given additional contracts,” he said.
“Having observed how swiftly Kofi Job has been executing his projects, we have continued to award him additional contracts after he completed the ones previously assigned to him,” he added.
Big Push to be implemented in phases
President Mahama has assured chiefs and residents whose roads were not included in the first phase of the Big Push programme that their concerns have been noted, explaining that the government intends to address the country’s road infrastructure needs in phases.
He said several traditional rulers had approached him to complain about the exclusion of roads in their communities from the current contracts.
However, he explained that the government would first prioritise major roads before extending attention to feeder roads.
“Many chiefs have come to me to complain that their roads were not included in the Big Push road contracts. I want to assure them that we are aware of the needs of their communities,” he said.
“However, we must first complete the major roads before we turn our attention to the feeder roads. We cannot undertake everything at the same time, so we have to proceed in phases.”
The President disclosed that he had directed Kofi Job to move his equipment from the current project to the Gambia Number Two road project to commence work there.
The phased implementation, he said, would allow the government to concentrate resources on priority infrastructure projects while preparing to address other road needs.
Mahama cautions drivers against speeding on improved roads
President Mahama has appealed to commercial and private drivers to exercise caution on the roads, warning that improved road conditions should not encourage speeding and reckless driving.
He made the appeal after recounting that he had witnessed a vehicular accident on his way to the inspection site.
According to him, although poor road conditions contribute to road safety challenges, the construction of safer roads does not automatically eliminate accidents, particularly when drivers fail to observe traffic regulations.
“On my way here, I witnessed a vehicular accident. It is unfortunate that, after roads have been constructed and made safer for motorists, some drivers begin to overspeed and subsequently become involved in accidents that result in deaths and injuries to passengers,” he said.
The President urged the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other transport unions to educate their members on responsible driving and compliance with road traffic regulations.
He explained that the government did not intend to install excessive speed ramps on highways because such measures could damage road surfaces over time.
However, he said designated zebra crossings would be provided to enable pedestrians to cross safely.
“I want to make it clear that the absence of speed ramps does not mean that drivers should overspeed.
A good road is meant to make travelling safer and more convenient, not to encourage reckless driving,” President Mahama stressed.
He urged drivers to obey road signs and speed limits and ensure that passengers arrive safely at their destinations.
Mahama clarifies restrictions on preaching in moving vehicles
President Mahama has clarified that the government has not banned preaching the Gospel in public transport vehicles, explaining that the restrictions under the road traffic regulations are intended to protect passengers and other road users.
Addressing public concerns over reports that preachers could face sanctions for preaching in vehicles, the President said religious activities were permitted when vehicles were stationed at terminals and loading passengers.
However, he explained that preaching, selling items and advertising medicines inside vehicles must stop once the vehicles begin moving.
“The government has not prohibited the preaching of the Gospel in vehicles. That is not what we have said,” he stated.
“When a bus is at a station loading passengers, preachers may board and preach. However, once the vehicle begins to move, they must stop preaching or selling items inside the vehicle.”
President Mahama said such activities could distract drivers and compromise the safety of passengers, particularly when individuals move around inside vehicles while preaching or selling products.
He also warned that people standing inside moving vehicles could sustain injuries if drivers suddenly applied their brakes.
“The reason for this restriction is safety. When someone is preaching, selling items or advertising medicines inside a moving vehicle, the driver’s attention may be distracted from the road. This can endanger the lives of everyone on board,” he said.
The President maintained that the restriction was not a new prohibition, stating that an existing Legislative Instrument (LI) already prohibited preaching and selling in moving vehicles, with the new road traffic regulations passed by Parliament succeeding the existing instrument in that regard.
He reiterated that the measure was intended to protect the lives of passengers, drivers, preachers and traders rather than prevent religious expression.
President Mahama consequently appealed to religious leaders, traders, transport operators and other road users to understand and comply with the regulations in the interest of public safety.
He said the government’s road construction and rehabilitation efforts must be complemented by responsible road use and adherence to traffic regulations to reduce accidents and protect lives.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
