Ghanaian contractors to lead nation’s $10 billion ‘Big Push’ infrastructure projects - Agbodza

Roads and Highways Minister-designate Kwame Governs Agbodza has provided clarity on the government’s $10 billion “Big Push” infrastructure fund, stressing its focus on transformative projects while pledging to prioritise Ghanaian contractors.

Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, 20 January 2025, Agbodza described the “Big Push” as a four-year initiative aimed at addressing critical infrastructure needs across key sectors such as health, education, and transportation.

The fund, introduced by President John Mahama during the 2024 election campaign, is designed to finance impactful projects that will boost economic growth and create jobs.

“The Big Push is not about routine road repairs or maintenance. It is meant to identify and fund large-scale projects that will benefit multiple sectors,” Mr Agbodza explained.

He clarified that the fund is not exclusively for the Ministry of Roads and Highways but will be allocated by the Ministry of Finance based on priorities set by the presidency.

During the campaign, the “Big Push” was touted as a solution to Ghana’s growing infrastructure challenges. It promised to complete delayed projects, initiate new ones, and strengthen local industries such as construction, positioning them as a driving force behind national development.

Mr Agbodza highlighted the need to balance the fund’s objectives with traditional funding for road projects. “We will continue to finance ongoing road projects through regular budget allocations and other sources,” he stated.

The Minister-designate reassured local contractors of his commitment to timely payments, recognising the risks they take to execute public projects.

“Many contractors use their personal assets as collateral to secure loans for road projects. These are some of the most patriotic Ghanaians, yet delayed payments often leave them in financial distress,” he said.

Mr Agbodza, known for his advocacy for local businesses, recalled his role in cancelling a contract with Motor Angels on the Accra-Tema Motorway and awarding it to a Ghanaian company.

He stressed the importance of supporting local contractors who employ Ghanaians and ensuring the economic benefits remain within the country.

Additionally, Mr Agbodza called for reforms to the contractor classification system, which determines eligibility for public contracts. He advocated for a system that promotes fairness and allows contractors at various levels to compete effectively.

“The classification must go hand-in-hand with interventions that enable all contractors, regardless of their capacity, to participate meaningfully,” he noted.