President John Mahama has issued a strict directive to road engineers, contractors, and supervisory teams involved in the Government’s “Big Push” infrastructure drive, demanding uncompromising adherence to quality standards before any payments are approved for ongoing road projects. The President emphasized that substandard construction undermines public investment, shortens road lifespans, and exacerbates economic inefficiencies, particularly in transportation, trade, and safety.
Speaking during an inspection of Phase Two of the Kafodzidzi–Abransa road rehabilitation in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem (KEEA) Municipality—as part of his two-day tour of the Central Region—Mahama underscored the critical role of quality control in ensuring that infrastructure projects deliver lasting value for Ghanaians.
A Call for Unwavering Quality Standards
Accompanied by Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini, Deputy Minister of Roads and Highways, Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, Central Regional Minister, and senior officials from the Ghana Highways Authority, President Mahama warned that “We will not accept substandard work.”
He stressed that every public fund allocated to these projects must result in roads that withstand the test of time, benefiting future generations. “Payments will be tied to verified quality and completion milestones,” he declared, reinforcing the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public spending.
Mahama highlighted a common flaw in road construction—poor compaction—which often leads to structural failures after heavy rains. “Most of the roads fail because the compacting is not done well, so after the rains, it falls sideways,” he explained. “This is the work of road engineers—not me—so you must test to ensure the road is well compacted before payments are made.”
The Strategic Importance of the Kafodzidzi–Abransa Road
The 5.49-kilometre Kafodzidzi–Abransa road is a vital link connecting the Cape Coast-Takoradi highway, facilitating faster transport of agricultural produce, particularly fresh catch, to markets. The project also aims to improve access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for the dozens of communities along the corridor.
Contracted to M/S Ashcal Investment Limited for GH¢54,961,893.00, the project was awarded in December 2025 with a 24-month completion deadline. Key construction activities include:
– Earthworks and drainage systems (U-drains of 0.6m, 0.9m, and 1.2m)
– Culvert installations
– Base and sub-base course construction
– Surface dressing and road markings
– Speed hump installations
As of June 26, 2026, the project stands at 22.8% physical completion, with GH¢8,326,352.65 spent—representing 16.83% of the total budget—after six months into the contract period.
Challenges and Government Assurances
President Mahama acknowledged that recent heavy rains have significantly slowed progress on Big Push roads nationwide, but he reiterated confidence that contractors would meet deadlines to alleviate commuter challenges.
To accelerate work, the President assured contractors that funds for ongoing Big Push projects have been allocated and are available. “The money is lying there,” he stated. “As soon as you bring your certificate of completion, we promise it will be processed promptly and paid without delay.”
He urged contractors to step up efforts, emphasizing that timely payments depend on verified progress and quality assurance.
Expanding Infrastructure for Economic Resilience
Beyond the Kafodzidzi–Abransa project, Mahama addressed communities yet to benefit from Big Push initiatives, assuring them that scoping for the second phase of the program in 2027 is underway. The President emphasized that the government remains committed to bridging infrastructure gaps to strengthen rural-urban linkages, boost trade, and enhance access to essential services.
The Big Push initiative, a multi-billion-cedi infrastructure drive, remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s economic recovery and growth strategy, aiming to reduce travel costs, improve safety, and stimulate investment across key sectors.
By enforcing strict quality checks, President Mahama’s directive signals a shift toward sustainable infrastructure development, ensuring that Ghana’s roads last longer, perform better, and contribute meaningfully to national progress.