The Minister of Roads and Highways, Mr. Governs Kwame Agbodza, has assured contractors executing the government's 'Big Push' Road Infrastructure programme of prompt payments once certificates are raised. This assurance aims to address past issues where contractors experienced delayed payments, sometimes up to two to three years. The 'Big Push' initiative, started by President John Dramani Mahama, focuses on accelerating road infrastructure development across Ghana.
Mr. Agbodza made these statements during an inspection of the 48-kilometer Sunyani-Atronie-Acherensua Road project at Antwikrom in the Sunyani Municipality. The project, being executed by Alexiboam Company Limited, is expected to be completed within two years. Major works on asphaltic overlays are currently underway on portions of the road. The Minister expressed satisfaction with the project's progress and emphasized the government's commitment to timely payments.
The Minister also inspected the progress of work on the 34-kilometer Sunyani Outer Ring Road project, which is being asphalted and executed by Kofi Job Company Limited. This project is also scheduled for completion within two years under the 'Big Push' programme. Mr. Agbodza indicated that funding for these projects is readily available and urged contractors to work diligently to ensure the timely completion of the road projects nationwide.
According to Mr. Agbodza, the government has streamlined the payment process to avoid delays. He stated that contractors are paid once they raise their certificates, and cautioned against shoddy work. The Minister's assurance aims to motivate contractors to maintain high standards and accelerate project completion.
Mr. Alex Boampong, the Chief Executive Officer of Alexiboam Company Limited, pledged the company's commitment to completing the projects even before the stipulated period. He mentioned that the construction of the Tano Bridge between Ntotroso and Acherensua initially slowed down the project execution. However, he added that work on the bridge is about 90 percent complete, indicating significant progress.
The 'Big Push' Road Infrastructure programme is a significant initiative by the Ghanaian government to improve the country's road network. By ensuring prompt payments to contractors, the government aims to maintain momentum and achieve the programme's objectives. The Minister's inspections and assurances underscore the government's commitment to overseeing the successful execution of these projects.
The successful completion of these road projects is expected to enhance transportation infrastructure, boost economic activities, and improve the overall quality of life for residents in the affected areas. With the government's assurance of prompt payments, contractors are expected to work efficiently to meet the project's deadlines.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government has assured contractors of prompt payments for 'Big Push' road projects to address past issues of delayed payments.
- The Minister of Roads and Highways inspected several projects, including the Sunyani-Atronie-Acherensua Road and the Sunyani Outer Ring Road.
- Contractors have pledged to complete the projects within or ahead of the stipulated timelines, with some projects already showing significant progress.
