Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has taken aim at the government’s “Year of Roads” initiative, labeling it ineffective and inadequate in addressing Ghana’s deplorable road infrastructure.
Speaking during a community engagement in Enchi, Aowin constituency, as part of his campaign tour in the Western North Region, Mr. Mahama noted widespread discontent among traditional rulers across the country regarding poor road conditions.
“This is the thirteenth region I’ve visited on my tour, and everywhere I go, the story is the same — bad roads and complaints from chiefs. Every year, the government proclaims a ‘Year of Roads,’ yet there’s little to show for it. Even the roads we constructed during my administration have been left to deteriorate due to poor maintenance,” he lamented.
The former president’s critique comes amidst growing dissatisfaction with the current state of road networks nationwide, despite the government’s high-profile announcement of a “Year of Roads” in 2019. The initiative aimed to prioritize road construction and completion, with the then-Minister of Roads, Kwasi Amoako Atta, declaring 2023 as the “year of completion” for ongoing projects.
Mr. Mahama argued that the lack of progress is evidence of mismanagement and misplaced priorities. He emphasized that road infrastructure is critical for economic development, particularly in regions like Western North, where road networks are vital for cocoa transportation and access to basic services.
The NDC flagbearer pledged to prioritize road infrastructure development and maintenance if elected, ensuring a sustainable approach to managing the country’s highways and roads.
