The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has publicly voiced significant concerns regarding the persistently high cost of cement in Ghana, urging producers to reduce their prices to reflect recent economic improvements.
During a press conference, the Minister highlighted that despite the relative stability of the Ghanaian cedi and a general decrease in the prices of various imported goods, cement producers have continued to maintain elevated prices. Agbodza pointed out that while many inputs for cement production are imported, the industry has, unlike other sectors, failed to pass on the benefits of currency stability and reduced import costs to consumers.
“The government and the Ghanaian people have worked diligently to stabilize the economy, and many sectors are responding by reducing prices. Yet, cement producers, however, are refusing to do the same,” he lamented, expressing his disappointment.
He emphasized that the Ministry of Roads and Highways will re-evaluate its partnerships with cement producers for national infrastructure projects. Stating that, moving forward, the government intends to prioritize collaboration with companies that are prepared to share economic gains with the public.
The Minister also called on cement producers to lower their prices, reminding them that the cost of cement directly impacts government projects, which are ultimately funded by Ghanaian taxpayers. He cautioned that producers who disregard this appeal risk being sidelined in the allocation of government contracts requiring cement.
“We will align our major government programs with companies that respond positively to our appeal. It’s time for cement prices to reflect the progress we have made as a country,” he concluded, signaling a potential shift in government procurement strategies within the sector.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
