President John Dramani Mahama has inspected ongoing construction works on the Asikuma–Anyirawase Road Project, reaffirming the government’s commitment to delivering modern road infrastructure under its flagship Big Push Programme.
The President said the government has committed significant resources to improving the country’s road network, describing quality infrastructure as a critical driver of economic growth, trade and improved livelihoods.
According to President Mahama, more than GH¢13 billion was allocated to the programme during its initial phase, with an additional GH¢30.8 billion provided this year, bringing the total investment commitment to over GH¢40 billion.
He disclosed that construction is currently underway on about 2,500 kilometres of roads nationwide, covering key highways and strategic transport corridors linking regional capitals and major economic centres.
President Mahama explained that the programme goes beyond routine road rehabilitation by upgrading roads to higher engineering standards to ensure greater durability and long-term value. He noted that many of the major highways are being constructed with asphaltic concrete to improve road quality and extend their lifespan.
Expressing satisfaction with the progress of work on the Asikuma–Anyirawase Road Project, the President commended contractors for the pace of execution, indicating that several projects are progressing ahead of schedule.
Although the overall completion target for the programme remains December 2027, he expressed optimism that some road projects could be completed ahead of the deadline.
President Mahama said the completed road projects would significantly improve connectivity, particularly within the Volta Region, by facilitating the movement of people, goods and services while stimulating commercial activities.
He also underscored the strategic importance of the Eastern Corridor Road Project, stating that it would strengthen transport links between the Volta, Oti and Northern regions, thereby creating new opportunities for trade, investment and regional integration.
Touching on the programme’s economic impact, the President revealed that the ongoing projects are estimated to have created about 300,000 direct and indirect jobs. He explained that the employment opportunities extend beyond construction workers to include suppliers, transport operators, food vendors, quarry operators and other businesses supporting project implementation.
President Mahama assured communities whose roads are yet to be captured under the programme that the initiative is a long-term national undertaking. He explained that the current phase is prioritising major trunk roads, with subsequent phases expected to extend road improvements to more communities across the country.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining the five-year Big Push Programme, stressing that a reliable road network remains vital to Ghana’s industrialisation, agricultural development, commerce and overall economic transformation.
By: Daniel Orlando/newsalertgh.com
