Gov't determined to complete Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom road - Roads Minister

Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, visited the Upper East Region. He assured local chiefs and residents that the government will complete the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom road.

During his visit to the project site in Bolgatanga, he emphasized the government's commitment. The aim is to secure sustainable funding for this important project. This will help relieve residents and boost local businesses.

Mr. Agbodza acknowledged the project's troubled history. He noted it began under the Roads Fund but faced funding challenges. The scope changed, leading to a switch to commercial funding approved by Parliament. Unfortunately, debt issues arose during this process.

He stated that the government prioritizes this road as critical infrastructure. The Ministry of Finance is working on securing funds for construction to resume soon.

“The Finance Minister is coordinating with all parties involved,” he said. They are waiting for guidance from him regarding financing for this project.

The Minister urged contractors to continue their work despite financial uncertainties. He highlighted that the government has been trying to advance this project since 2016.

Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Atanga Akamugri praised Mr. Agbodza's visit. He described it as evidence of the government's seriousness about regional development.

Mr. Akamugri called the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom road “the heartbeat” of the region. It connects Ghana to neighboring Sahelian countries and is vital for trade.

He stressed that completing this road would enhance overall infrastructure in conjunction with the Eastern Corridor Road project.

The Regional Minister expressed confidence in resolving local conflicts soon. He believes completing this road will significantly boost business and economic growth in Upper East Region.

He urged both Roads and Finance Ministers to expedite action on this project. Mr. Akamugri plans to collaborate with MPs to apply pressure on these ministers for timely action.

The Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom road project started in late 2016, initially set for completion within two and a half years. However, contractors halted work due to unpaid arrears after about a year.

Originally estimated at GH¢613 million, costs later rose to 127 million Euros. Two firms were awarded contracts: Mawums Construction Limited from Ghana and Brazil's Queiroz Galvao.

After a change in government in 2017, contracts were re-awarded but remained stalled since early 2023.

This 117-kilometre road passes through six political districts in Upper East Region: Bolgatanga Municipal, Bolgatanga East District, Nabdam District, Bawku West District, Binduri District, Bawku Municipal, and Pusiga District.

It also links Ghana with Burkina Faso, Mali, Togo, and Niger; its completion is crucial for trade expansion.

Mr. Agbodza was accompanied by his deputy Alhassan Suhuyini during his inspection of another stalled project: the Bolgatanga-Sherigu-Naaga road.