Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza has threatened to terminate the contract for the stalled Enchi–Elubo road project in the Western North Region. This action follows persistent delays by Top Engineering International Ltd., the contractor responsible for the 71.25-kilometre stretch. Mr. Agbodza made this declaration during an inspection on Tuesday, 12 May.
The Minister criticised Top Engineering International Ltd. for failing to restart construction despite receiving a GHS 80.2 million mobilisation payment from the government. This payment was intended to facilitate the commencement of work on the crucial road. The prolonged inactivity has severely hindered progress on the important infrastructure project.
The Enchi–Elubo road is a key artery for transporting cocoa and facilitating trade across the border. Its poor condition has led to numerous complaints from motorists and residents. These complaints highlight issues like deep potholes, significant erosion, and unsafe driving conditions.
Mr. Agbodza described the project as one of the most troubling cases encountered under the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure agenda. He noted that residents dry cocoa by the roadside due to the road's state and current economic conditions. The Minister emphasised that the road's strategic importance led President John Dramani Mahama to prioritise it under the national infrastructure programme.
Oscar Ofori Larbi, the Member of Parliament for the area, also expressed his disappointment. He expected better execution from the contractor given their performance on other projects, like the Enchi–Asankragua road. Residents have voiced deep frustration over the ongoing delays, stating the deteriorating road negatively impacts transportation, trading, and their livelihoods.
The government considered terminating the contract but remains concerned about recovering the GHS 80.2 million mobilisation funds already paid. Mr. Agbodza stated that this financial consideration is the only reason for not terminating the contract immediately. Recovering such a large sum would be a complex process.
The Minister has directed representatives of Top Engineering International Ltd. to meet with the Ghana Highway Authority within one week. He explicitly warned that the government would not hesitate to replace the contractor if work does not resume promptly. Mr. Agbodza noted that many other contractors are ready to take on the project if the current firm cannot fulfill its obligations. This demonstrates the government's resolve to push forward with its infrastructure agenda, ensuring that vital projects are completed efficiently.
The outcome of this ultimatum will significantly affect regional trade flows and the daily lives of residents in the Western North Region. It also sets a precedent for how the government will handle contractors who fail to deliver on projects after receiving public funds. This situation could impact investor confidence in public-private partnerships if funds are not managed effectively. The market will closely watch the government’s next steps to ensure accountability and project delivery within Ghana’s infrastructure development landscape.