Ghana's Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has inspected the 22-kilometre Kwabenya-Berekuso-Kitase road. The visit follows years of protests by residents over the road's condition. Mr Agbodza was accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Highways Authority during the tour on Tuesday, September 22. The road's neglect has caused difficulties for communities along the stretch.
The minister stated that the government's decision to address the road was not a response to recent demonstrations but part of a broader commitment to developing important roads. He acknowledged the past record of government in executing road projects had created apprehension among contractors. Mr Agbodza stressed that protests alone could not trigger a road project, and actual funding from government resources was required before construction could begin.
Mr Agbodza emphasised that staging demonstrations would not automatically result in the release of funds for road construction. He said it would take money from taxes or loans to start the project. The minister highlighted the road's historical and strategic importance, serving as a key connection beyond the immediate communities in the Akuapem area.
The Kwabenya-Berekuso-Kitase road is considered more than a community road, with the minister citing its connection to history. Government's decision to prioritise the road is based on its importance to Ghana as a whole, not solely on demands from Akuapem residents. Contractors working on the Dome-Kitase road are expected to fully mobilise back to the site this week under President John Dramani Mahama's direction.
The government will not accept a situation where contractors return to the site only to undertake limited work before leaving again. Mr Agbodza urged for full action on the site this time. The minister's inspection aims to inform the government's next steps towards addressing the road's condition and residents' concerns.
Residents have been calling for help, citing the road's impact on health and education. The government's consideration of measures to address the neglect follows years of protests. Mr Agbodza's inspection is part of efforts to address the concerns raised by residents and develop the road.
The minister's comments come amid reports of progress on other road projects in Ghana. The government's efforts to address road infrastructure issues are ongoing, with a focus on developing important roads and recovering funds from contractors for abandoned projects.
Key points
- The 22km Kwabenya-Berekuso-Kitase road has historical and strategic importance.
- Government's decision to address the road is based on its importance to Ghana, not solely on residents' demands.
- Contractors are expected to fully mobilise back to the site this week.
