The Roads Minister, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has instructed the Ghana Highways Authority to terminate the contract of Black Oak. This company is responsible for the Bogoso–Prestea Road project. The order was given to the Chief Executive Officer, Mallam Issah Ishak.
Black Oak received the contract in 2025. However, the contractor did not start work on-site until March 2026. After clearing the sides of the road, the company left the project. They claimed they did not have the necessary road designs. The Regional Highways Engineer reported that less than two percent of the work is finished. This low completion rate is a major concern for the government.
Minister Agbodza inspected the road during a tour of 'Big Push' projects in the Western Region. He emphasized that the Bogoso–Prestea Road is a priority for the government. Even though it is not directly part of the 'Big Push' initiative, it is crucial for development. The Minister stated the government will not tolerate delays on this important route. This situation reflects a broader trend of scrutiny on infrastructure projects in Ghana. The government aims to ensure public funds are used efficiently. Recent reports have indicated a strong push to hold contractors accountable for project timelines and quality. For example, other contractors have faced similar warnings from the Ministry.
Minister Agbodza expressed his strong dissatisfaction with Black Oak's performance. He believes the contractor has failed to meet the agreed-upon standards and schedules. The Ministry is committed to delivering quality infrastructure. This decision sends a clear message to other contractors working on government projects. They must adhere strictly to project timelines. Failure to do so will result in contract termination. The ongoing efforts to improve road networks are vital for economic growth and connectivity across Ghana. The Ministry's firm stance aims to prevent further waste of resources and ensure project delivery.
The termination of Black Oak's contract signals a more assertive approach by the Ministry. This is to ensure that public infrastructure projects meet their objectives. Investors and businesses will be watching closely. They want to see consistent progress on key roads. Future infrastructure investments by the government will likely depend on the successful execution of current projects. This move aims to restore confidence in the government's ability to manage large-scale infrastructure development effectively. The focus remains on timely completion and high-quality roads for all Ghanaians. The Ministry will likely seek a new contractor to continue the Bogoso–Prestea Road works swiftly.