Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza completed a two-day inspection tour of the Upper West Region. The tour assessed the progress of crucial government road projects. This followed increasing public anger over abandoned sites and significant construction delays.
The Minister's visit aimed to address resident complaints and evaluate ongoing work. He praised contractors demonstrating good progress. Mr. Agbodza issued stern warnings to others who failed to meet project timelines. This direct intervention seeks to accelerate infrastructure development in the region.
This inspection comes as part of the government’s “Big Push” road agenda. This agenda aims to improve Ghana’s road network. The Upper West Region has seen rising public frustration, with threats of protests at Wa Airport. Such delays hurt economic activity and create difficult living conditions for residents. Improving these roads is vital for regional trade and connectivity.
During his tour, Mr. Agbodza inspected the 37-kilometre Bulenga–Yaanyuo-Yiri road. Work is now underway with ASTEE Ghana Limited. Ghana Highway Authority Regional Director, Lovestone Damalie, commended the contractor. The Mankuri–Han section, completed by P&W Ghanem, also received praise. Chief Executive Mallam Issa Ishak of the Ghana Highway Authority noted “no regret” for the 10-kilometre contract award. Mr. Agbodza promised P&W Ghanem another project for their efficiency.
Not all contractors received positive feedback. Malpourma Enterprise Limited faced scrutiny for failing to start work on the Sawla–Wa highway six months after its launch. The company is also behind schedule on the Jeffisi–Tumu stretch. MO&MO Limited, Ganhali Limited, and M A Constance Limited were absent from their project sites. The Minister issued an ultimatum, telling these contractors to return or risk contract termination.
The Minister emphasized the human impact of poor road conditions. He recalled seeing women sweeping maize grains from a damaged road near Nandow–Waala–Jeffisi a year ago. This image highlighted the urgent need for road improvements. Local chiefs and Tumu MP Mohammed Issa Battaglia praised Mawums Ghana Limited for progress on the Jeffisi–Tumu road. This new route has cut travel time to the Upper East regional capital to about two hours.
Deputy Roads Minister Alhassan Suhuyini stated the inspections intend to ensure President John Dramani Mahama’s road agenda is met. The objective is not to embarrass contractors. A calmer mood now prevails in the Upper West Region. Road works are advancing, and the planned protest at Wa Airport has been cancelled. Continued progress will help the government avoid further confrontations with the public.