Feature

Cobblestone Roads: A Durable, Economical, and Job-Creating Solution for Ghana

Ghana faces a persistent challenge of maintaining and expanding its road network. Traditional asphalt construction is expensive, less labour-intensive in a way, and requires regular maintenance. That notwithstanding, a compelling alternative exists, offering a durable, cost-effective, and job-rich solution: cobblestone roads. This proven technology, utilised for centuries in cities like Lisbon, Berlin, Freiburg, Baltimore, and Boston, presents a significant opportunity for Ghana’s infrastructure development.

The longevity of cobblestone roads is unparalleled. Their lifespan extends for hundreds of years and capable of being overlaid with asphalt if needed. This significantly reduces long-term maintenance costs compared to traditional asphalt roads, which require frequent and expensive repairs.

Portugal provides a compelling case study. Approximately 90% of its road network utilises cobblestone foundations. During economic hardship in the 1990s, Portugal strategically employed citizens to build cobblestone roads to revive the economy and create jobs. This model offers a powerful blueprint for Ghana.

Cobblestone technology offers a dramatic reduction in construction costs, estimated at 38% compared to conventional methods. This cost-effectiveness is further amplified by its job creation potential. While asphalt projects typically employ hundreds of workers, cobblestone construction can engage thousands.

For instance, a 1,278 km road project which would be equal to the distance from the southern coast of Ghana to Paga in the north and back could cost around $750 million using cobblestone technology without bridges and culverts.

Aligning perfectly with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a 24-hour economy which allows for around-the-clock work, this project could be completed within six months, employing 15,000 workers at monthly salaries ranging from GHS 3,000 to GHS 4,500.

Beyond economic benefits, cobblestones offer a practical solution to the challenges posed by heavy axle loads, particularly from trucks originating in the Sahelian regions. Cobblestone’s inherent strength mitigates the damage caused by excessive weight, eliminating the need for stringent axle load regulations.

Ghana is uniquely positioned to leverage this technology. The existing District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) equipment can be readily integrated with cobblestone construction techniques, accelerating the development of district road networks, especially in crucial cocoa-growing areas. This synergistic approach maximises existing resources while expanding infrastructure capabilities.

Critically, Ghana already has the necessary expertise. A Ghanaian individual possesses the technical know-how and established setup to initiate this project immediately. This readily available local expertise eliminates the need for costly foreign consultants and ensures knowledge transfer within the country.

In conclusion, investing in cobblestone road technology presents a multifaceted solution for Ghana’s infrastructure needs. It offers substantial cost savings, creates widespread employment opportunities, enhances road durability, and addresses the challenges of heavy axle loads. With a local expert ready to implement this proven technology, Ghana has a unique opportunity to build a more resilient and economically vibrant future, one cobblestone at a time.

Anthony Obeng Afrane