GH¢150 million insufficient to address Ghana's road sector challenges, GH¢2 billion minimum needed - Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry

The Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry (GhCCI) has emphasized that tackling the current challenges facing the road sector in the country would necessitate a minimum investment of GH¢2 billion. The Chamber has expressed discontent with the government’s allocation of GH¢150 million to road contractors for nationwide pothole patching, considering it significantly inadequate.

In an interview with Citi News, Emmanuel Cherry, CEO of GhCCI, urged the Ministry of Roads and Highways to reconsider the funding allocation, pointing to the escalating costs of crucial materials for road maintenance.

Cherry stated, “You don’t need anything less than GH¢2 billion as we speak because the entire roads in the country have been neglected for years and then the potholes have now degenerated into manholes.” He highlighted the impact of inflation on the cost of goods and services, emphasizing that the funds allocated two years ago would no longer suffice for the same road repairs.

Additionally, the CEO criticized the former Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako Atta, for his perceived lack of transparency and limited consultations when making decisions. While acknowledging Atta as knowledgeable about the industry, Cherry noted a positive difference in the current minister’s approach, citing openness and a willingness to engage various stakeholders for ideas and suggestions.