In a bold commitment to enhance infrastructure in Ghana, President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled key elements of the 'Big Push' infrastructure program, promising swift financial support for contractors and transformative projects aimed at improving connectivity across the nation. During his recent 'Thank You' tour of the Upper West Region on May 15, the president addressed a crowd of enthusiastic supporters to outline the ambitious plans that he believes will significantly change the landscape of Ghana’s infrastructure.
Drawing attention to the government's financial commitment, President Mahama highlighted that a considerable budget of 14 billion Ghana cedis has been allocated for the initiative. "This year, we have set aside this significant amount to ensure contractors involved in the Big Push are adequately supported,” he stated. He also noted that Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson assured him that all contractors would receive 15% mobilization funds to kick-start their work on-site immediately.
In a refreshing move to eliminate payment delays, the president declared that any contractor who submits their payment certificate could expect payment within two weeks. "No contractor will have the excuse that he has not been paid," he affirmed, indicating a transformative approach to managing the operational side of infrastructure development.
A centerpiece of the Big Push initiative is the plan to construct a new expressway that will halve the travel time between the bustling cities of Accra and Kumasi from four hours to just two and a half hours. "This expressway will ease travel and foster economic activity between our two largest cities," President Mahama commented, emphasizing the importance of improving logistical efficiency for businesses and citizens alike.
As the president outlined further objectives, he announced that the government's cabinet would soon approve several priority projects under the infrastructure program. These initiatives will predominantly focus on upgrading major highways, with plans for dualization work on routes such as the Accra-Kumasi, Accra-Takoradi, and Accra-Aflao roads, all vital arteries for transportation in the country.
Equally ambitious are the plans for essential bridge rehabilitations. The president mentioned key bridges that would be addressed, including the Dambai Bridge, Kyeiamanfrom Bridge, and the ongoing rehabilitation of the Buipe, Daboya, and Yapei bridges. He assured citizens that these efforts are crucial for maintaining safe and reliable transit routes, fostering national connectivity.
In direct response to longstanding issues raised during his campaign, President Mahama committed to improving the road network in the Upper West Region, an area the president described as having “a terrible road network.” He noted the prioritization of the Wa-Tumu-Bolgatanga Trunk Road and the Techiman-Wenchi-Bole-Wa-Hamile Corridor, emphasizing the need to resurface sections of the Sawla-Fufulso Road. These targeted enhancements aims to boost trade, improve transport logistics, and reinvigorate economic activity through better connectivity with both the Northern and Savannah regions.
“This is not just about roads; it’s about enhancing access to markets, schools, and health facilities,” he stated while addressing issues affecting local communities. The president’s assurance that construction would commence shortly instilled hope among residents, with a promise that “in a few months, you’ll see contractors on all these roads because the money has been provided in the budget.”
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As excitement built among the citizens, many expressed their optimism about the potential improvements in their daily lives. The president’s administration appears determined to make significant strides in addressing infrastructure deficiencies that have historically hampered economic and social development in various regions of the country.
The Big Push initiative is seen not only as an infrastructure upgrade but as a pivotal contributor to economic growth and regional development. With the backing of the government and a clear timeline for the commencement of projects, many Ghanaians are hopeful that these developments will usher in a new era of growth reflective of the nation's aspirations.
In closing his address, President Mahama reiterated the commitment of his administration to create a better future for all Ghanaians. “Together, we will build roads, bridges, and an infrastructure that supports our shared vision for growth and prosperity." As citizens eagerly await the tangible fruits of this initiative, the focus on modernizing Ghana's infrastructure could indeed redefine the nation's economic landscape for generations to come.
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