Agbodza Justifies Government’s Timeline for Accra–Kumasi Expressway Project

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has defended the government’s projected timeline for the proposed Accra–Kumasi Expressway, insisting that the plan is based on deliberate policy decisions intended to accelerate national infrastructure development.

His remarks follow concerns expressed by Tony Asare, President of the Ghana Institute of Architects, who questioned whether the highway could realistically be completed within the announced timeframe given the extensive design and preparatory work required for a project of that scale.

Speaking during a road inspection tour in Ghana’s Western Region on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, Mr. Agbodza encouraged professional organisations within the construction and built environment sector to engage directly with the ministry before publicly challenging the feasibility of government projects.

He argued that large infrastructure projects are often viewed with skepticism in their early phases until substantial physical progress becomes visible.

According to the minister, the government is simultaneously undertaking activities such as clearing works, design processes, studies, and accelerated construction programming in order to meet the targeted completion schedule.

Mr. Agbodza noted that more than 20 kilometres of work had already been covered, despite earlier claims that the design stage alone would require up to 18 months before physical work could begin.

He further stressed that infrastructure development ultimately reflects political and policy choices about how public resources should be prioritised for national development.

According to him, governments can choose either to direct resources toward projects that improve citizens’ lives or spend funds elsewhere.

The minister also highlighted ongoing infrastructure financing efforts under the current administration, stating that the government has continued paying contractors despite financial constraints and without resorting to additional borrowing.

He revealed that approximately GH¢12 billion had already been paid to contractors under the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure programme.

Mr. Agbodza acknowledged that doubts surrounding major national projects are common but urged critics to first seek clarification from the ministry before making public statements.

The proposed Accra–Kumasi Expressway remains one of the government’s flagship infrastructure initiatives and is intended to provide an alternative route connecting two of Ghana’s major cities as part of a broader national road development strategy.