Suame Interchange contractors to return to site after gov’t clears arrears

Roads Minister, Governs Kwame Agbodza, says contractors will return to the stalled Suame Interchange site next week after the government cleared outstanding arrears.

In a post on X on Wednesday, Mr. Agbodza acknowledged public frustration over delays on the Kumasi project and outlined steps taken to restart work.

“Government cleared the outstanding debt owed to the contractors based on certificates raised and not paid for since 2024,” he wrote, adding that contractors are expected to “FULLY mobilise back to site next week to complete the project.”

The Minister appealed for calm among residents and traders affected by the prolonged construction, stating, “Thank you for your patience. Together, we shall build better infrastructure for Kumasi.”

His update follows growing agitation within the Suame enclave, where artisans and residents recently blocked roads to protest the dusty conditions and disruptions caused by the incomplete interchange.

The demonstration, largely driven by workers from Suame Magazine, highlighted worsening business conditions and health concerns linked to the stalled works.

Protesters argued that the situation had made daily life and commercial activity increasingly difficult, intensifying pressure on government to fast-track completion.

Mr. Agbodza has also pushed back against criticism from the Minority, insisting the previous administration failed to deliver the project despite having the opportunity.

In an interview on Channel One TV four days ago, he said critics “shouldn’t have the moral right to talk about it” if they truly cared about Kumasi residents, maintaining that the current government is committed to finishing the interchange.

Last month, the Roads and Highways Ministry announced an additional GH¢3 billion allocation toward the revised three-tier design of the Suame Interchange.

The government hopes to complete one of Kumasi’s most critical road infrastructure projects.