GhIE calls for independent audit of GH₵110bn 'Big Push' road projects over procurement concerns
The Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) has called on the Auditor-General to conduct an independent and comprehensive audit of road projects under the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure programme, citing growing concerns over procurement practices and project execution.
The move follows investigative findings by The Fourth Estate, which highlighted the widespread use of single-source procurement and restricted tendering in contract awards by the Ministry of Roads and Highways.
In statement released on Wednesday. April 8, the GhIE stressed that the scale of investment—estimated at GHS 110 billion, with about GHS 85 billion already committed—is too significant to proceed without thorough and impartial scrutiny.
The institution argued that such a large public expenditure must be independently audited to ensure quality infrastructure delivery, accountability, and tangible benefits for citizens.
"From a professional engineering standpoint, GhIE considers the scale of investment estimated at GHS 110 billion, with approximately GHS 85 billion already committed to ongoing road projects as too significant to proceed without rigorous and independent scrutiny," the statement read.
"The Institution maintains that such unprecedented public expenditure must be subjected to a credible audit process to safeguard the national interest, ensure that infrastructure delivery meets expected standards, and guarantee that every cedi invested delivers measurable value, efficiency, and tangible benefits to the Ghanaian people."
While acknowledging President John Dramani Mahama’s directive for a response from the Roads Ministry, GhIE maintained that only an independent audit by the Auditor-General can provide objective findings and restore public confidence.
Citing the Audit Service Act, the institution emphasized the Auditor-General’s mandate to undertake special audits in the public interest.
It also noted that the audit should cover the entire project lifecycle, including feasibility studies, engineering design, procurement processes, environmental and social compliance, and implementation.
"This request is grounded in Section 16 of the Audit Service Act, 2000 (Act 584), which empowers the AuditorGeneral to undertake special audits in the public interest and report to Parliament. GhIE considers this mandate critical at this juncture to reinforce accountability and institutional credibility," the statement read.
GhIE further underscored the importance of adhering to Ghana’s procurement and public investment laws, warning that deviations could undermine transparency, accountability, and efficient use of public resources.
The institution clarified that its call is not to assign blame but to strengthen systems, identify gaps, and improve infrastructure delivery.
It also pledged technical support to ensure a credible audit process and urged swift action to safeguard national interest and public trust.
"The Institution stands ready to support the Auditor-General with technical expertise to ensure a credible and comprehensive audit process, noting that this call has already attracted significant public interest following its announcement at a recent national induction ceremony for engineers."
"At a time of significant national investment, GhIE urges swift and decisive action to ensure transparency, accountability, and value for money in the delivery of these critical projects," the statement concluded.
