The government has cleared all outstanding debts to contractors involved in the Accra–Tema Motorway and Pokuase schemes, according to Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza.
Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, the Minister dismissed speculation that financial arrears were causing project delays, confirming that all financial obligations to these contractors have been met.
His statements came in response to queries from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin regarding severe traffic bottlenecks and delays on principal transport arteries in Accra and Kumasi.
Mr Agbodza noted that whilst funding hurdles persist, progress continues across several vital infrastructure sites.
He explained that two distinct contractors have been appointed to manage major entry and exit corridors in Kumasi, noting that one team has returned to the location whilst the second is being urged to restart operations.
“I know the situation you are talking about. I’ve been there myself on a number of occasions,” the Minister informed the House.
He conceded that gridlock along major routes—including Pokuase, Kasoa-Central University, and the Accra-Tema Motorway—presents a major obstacle, especially over weekends.
Nevertheless, he emphasised that active strategic programmes are in place to alleviate traffic congestion on all affected stretches.
“On record, the Motorway contract is ongoing and as of this morning, we don’t owe the contractor any amount of money. All outstanding claims have been settled,” he declared.
Furthermore, he verified that there are no unpaid interim payment certificates tied to the Pokuase development.
The Minister assured MPs that the administration remains in constant dialogue with contractors to expedite construction and reduce travel disruptions for the public.
He clarified that whilst operations on the Parliamentary-approved Motorway-Central University section had previously ground to a halt due to debt complications, activity has since recommenced.
“We are back on site and we are hopeful that by the end of 2027 those sections should be completed,” he stated.
Turning to the Ashaiman Roundabout-Akosombo Road scheme, the Minister acknowledged that financial constraints have hampered progress, causing the contractor to work at a reduced speed, though they remain on site.
To resolve this, he revealed that the administration is negotiating with the German government and alternative international development partners to obtain supplementary financing.
Whilst expressing empathy for the public’s irritation regarding the gridlock on key routes exiting Accra, he reassured citizens that measures are being actively taken to resolve the issues swiftly.
“I thank the Minority Leader for raising this issue. Indeed, it is a matter of public interest,” he concluded.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
