Accra-Kumasi dualisation project not abandoned – Roads minister

Minister for Roads and Highways Kwame Governs Agbodza has assured Ghanaians that the government remains committed to completing the Accra-Kumasi Highway dualisation project despite plans to develop the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway.

The assurance follows growing public concern over the future of the long-delayed highway project after recent traffic congestion left commuters stranded for hours along portions of the corridor.

Addressing contractors and consultants working on the Osino, Anyinam, and Konongo bypass projects, Mr Agbodza dismissed suggestions that the dualisation project was being sidelined in favour of the proposed expressway.

“This project is a priority to the government, just as the Accra-Kumasi Expressway is,” the Minister stated.

He stressed that both road projects form part of the government’s broader infrastructure agenda and would proceed simultaneously.

Mr Agbodza also directed the Ghana Highway Authority to begin immediate engagements with contractors to facilitate the signing of new contractual agreements following the expiration of earlier project timelines.

As part of efforts to accelerate work, the Minister handed contractors a firm 2027 completion deadline for the bypass projects, signalling the government’s determination to ensure visible progress on the corridor.

The intervention forms part of a broader push by the Mahama administration to revive delayed infrastructure projects and improve accountability within the road sector, which has faced criticism over abandoned works and prolonged project delays over the years.

Beyond the Accra-Kumasi Highway, Mr Agbodza reiterated the government’s commitment to completing inherited projects across the country.

According to him, the administration inherited road project liabilities amounting to GH¢40 billion but has already paid GH¢12 billion to contractors to keep ongoing projects active.

While contractors working on the bypasses expressed confidence in meeting the 2027 deadline, they warned that unresolved compensation payments to affected communities and landowners could delay completion.

According to them, delays in compensation could trigger disputes, resistance from affected residents, and possible legal challenges that may affect project timelines.

The Accra-Kumasi Highway remains one of Ghana’s busiest transport corridors, linking the country’s two largest cities and serving as a major route for trade, passenger movement, and logistics nationwide.