The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, has issued a stern warning to underperforming contractors under the government’s flagship Big Push infrastructure programme, threatening contract termination, legal action, and the reassignment of projects.
The caution follows a working tour of the Bono, Savannah, and Upper West regions, where the Minister observed what he described as slow progress, last-minute mobilisation, and unfulfilled commitments across several road projects. He criticised some contractors for undertaking government contracts without the requisite capacity or intention to deliver.
Maripoma Construction was singled out for scrutiny, with the Minister questioning the firm’s commitment and professionalism. He accused the company of mobilising to site only upon learning of his visit, warning that failure to achieve at least 20 per cent progress within two months would attract sanctions.
The Minister also highlighted the broader political implications of stalled projects, noting that poor contractor performance ultimately undermines government credibility. He cautioned that no contractor is beyond accountability, emphasising that contracts could be terminated and disputes pursued through the courts if necessary.
Mr Agbodza further expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work on the Wenchi–Bole–Wa Highway, a critical corridor linking the Bono and Savannah regions. He indicated that contracts may be abrogated and reassigned to more capable firms if progress remains unsatisfactory.
He challenged contractors who had actively sought these projects but were now underperforming, describing the situation as indicative of a wider culture of delays within the sector. According to him, the Big Push programme will enforce stricter timelines and accountability measures, departing from past practices where delays often attracted minimal consequences.
In a notable observation, the Minister remarked that some smaller contractors were outperforming larger firms under the programme, reinforcing his position that performance, rather than size or influence, would determine contract retention.
The Savannah Regional Minister endorsed the Minister’s stance, disclosing that authorities had already intervened to avert planned protests by local youth over stalled projects. He warned that stricter enforcement measures would be applied to ensure timely delivery across the region.
The government has signalled its intention to intensify oversight and enforce compliance as it seeks to accelerate infrastructure development under the Big Push initiative.
