Roads Minister Threatens Contractor Over Techiman-Wenchi Project Delay

Ghana's Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has voiced severe disappointment regarding the slow progress of construction on the Techiman-Wenchi Road project. He warned contractors that their agreement could be terminated and re-awarded if they fail to provide valid reasons for the delays. This project is a key part of the government’s ‘Big Push’ road infrastructure initiative.

The government has already paid GHS 66 million to the contractors for the Techiman-Wenchi Road. Mr. Agbodza highlighted this substantial payment during a project site inspection, stating there is no excuse for the slow execution. The minister noted that work on the road started in December 2025, but significant improvement is still lacking. He demanded immediate explanations from the contractors for this poor performance.

This situation fits into a broader national focus on infrastructure development under the ‘Big Push’ programme. The government has invested heavily in this initiative to improve Ghana's road network and boost economic activity. However, recurring issues with contractor performance and project delays have sparked public debate and scrutiny over the program's effectiveness and financial management. Past reports from the Ghana Institution of Engineering have even called for independent audits of the GHS 110 billion ‘Big Push’ road program.

“Yet we haven’t seen any meaningful improvement,” Mr. Agbodza stated, expressing his frustration with the lack of progress. He emphasized that the ‘Big Push’ programme aims to facilitate the movement of goods and services across the country. The Techiman-Wenchi road is deemed a critical priority to open up the area and stimulate socio-economic development, according to the minister. He urged contractors to expedite their work while ensuring high-quality construction.

The implied termination threat means the government may seek new contractors if current issues persist. This would likely cause further delays for the Techiman-Wenchi Road project, affecting local communities and businesses. Decision-makers will closely watch the contractors' response and any subsequent government action to ensure accountability. The Bono East Regional Minister, Francis Owusu Antwi, accompanying Mr. Agbodza, pledged to enhance monitoring to ensure project completion within schedule and to quality standards.