President John Dramani Mahama has issued a strict directive to road engineers and contractors involved in the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure drive, demanding that only roads meeting the highest quality benchmarks receive final payments. The President emphasized that cutting corners in construction standards would not be tolerated, as it undermines public investment, compromises safety, and leads to premature road failures—particularly after heavy rainfall.
Speaking during an inspection of Phase Two of the Kafodzidzi–Abransa road rehabilitation in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem (KEEA) Municipality, President Mahama underscored the critical role of quality control in ensuring that infrastructure projects deliver lasting value for Ghanaians. His remarks came as part of a two-day regional tour focused on assessing progress in the Central Region’s infrastructure development.
Accompanied by Mr. Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini, Deputy Minister of Roads and Highways, Mr. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, Central Regional Minister, and senior officials from the Ghana Highways Authority, the President stressed adherence to design specifications and global construction standards. He warned that “substandard work will not be accepted” and that payments would be contingent upon verified quality and completion milestones.
A Call for Accountability in Road Construction
President Mahama highlighted a common flaw in road construction—poor compaction of materials—which often leads to structural weaknesses after rain. “Most roads fail because the compacting is not done well,” he explained. “After the rains, they crumble sideways. This is not my responsibility; it is the work of road engineers. You must conduct proper tests to confirm the road is well-compacted before payments are approved.”
The 5.49-kilometre Kafodzidzi–Abransa road project, a critical link between the Cape Coast-Takoradi highway, is designed to enhance transport efficiency, boost market access for fresh produce, and improve connectivity to healthcare and educational facilities in surrounding communities. The project, awarded to M/S Ashcal Investment Limited in December 2025 for GH¢54,961,893.00, is scheduled for completion within 24 months.
Key Construction Milestones and Progress
Major works under the project include:
– Earthworks and grading
– Installation of U-drains (0.6m, 0.9m, and 1.2m) for drainage efficiency
– Construction of culverts to prevent flooding
– Laying of base and sub-base courses for stability
– Surface dressing for durability
– Road line markings and speed hump installations for safety
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 of the 24-month contract period. While progress has been slower than anticipated due to recent heavy rains, President Mahama reiterated confidence that contractors would accelerate work to meet deadlines and alleviate commuter challenges.
Addressing Economic and Social Impact
The President noted that the Kafodzidzi–Abransa road would strengthen rural-urban linkages, stimulate local trade, and improve access to essential services for the dozens of communities along the corridor. “This road is not just about asphalt; it is about economic resilience, job creation, and better living standards for Ghanaians,” he stated.
However, he acknowledged that some communities have yet to benefit from the Big Push projects, urging patience as the government scopes the second phase of the initiative for 2027. “We are working to ensure no community is left behind,” he assured.
Ensuring Prompt Payments for Contractors
To motivate contractors and prevent delays, President Mahama guaranteed timely payments once certified work is completed. “The funds for these projects have been allocated and are available,” he declared. “As soon as you submit your completion certificate, payments will be processed without delay. We want you to work faster so that we can release funds promptly and support Ghana’s economic growth.”
Broader Implications for Ghana’s Infrastructure Development
The President’s directive aligns with the government’s long-term vision for sustainable infrastructure, emphasizing that quality, not speed, must define construction standards. By tightening oversight and enforcing strict quality checks, the government aims to:
– Reduce maintenance costs by preventing early road failures
– Lower travel expenses for commuters
– Enhance road safety through proper engineering
– Boost investor confidence in Ghana’s infrastructure sector
– Support trade and economic activities by ensuring reliable transport networks
As Ghana continues its Big Push infrastructure drive, President Mahama’s uncompromising stance on quality signals a shift toward accountability in public spending, ensuring that every pesewa invested delivers lasting benefits for the nation’s development.