President John Dramani Mahama has pledged that all 16 regions of Ghana will benefit from his government’s flagship infrastructure initiative, the Big Push programme.
Speaking at the official launch of the project at Afienya in the Greater Accra Region on Tuesday, September 16, the President said the initiative is designed to modernise the country’s road network, enhance inter-regional connectivity, and create new economic opportunities.
“From January 7, we have been designing road projects across the length and breadth of the country. The Big Push touches all 16 regions. Every region is going to benefit from its share of the programme,” Mahama said.
He stressed that the programme will also strengthen links between district capitals. “We have 261 districts in Ghana, and we believe neighbouring districts should have good roads connecting their capitals,” he added.
The President cautioned that the Big Push initiative is not open to unqualified contractors. “There are a few wheelbarrow contractors who have come to me saying, ‘Oh, I hear they are distributing projects under the Big Push.
“I want one.’ I say, ‘My friend, this is not for wheelbarrow contractors. You are my friend, but I won’t give it to you because it is not meant for wheelbarrow contractors,’” Mahama stated.
He explained that only qualified local and international contractors—many of whom are already engaged in ongoing works will handle the projects to ensure speed and quality delivery.
Some contracts that were awarded before his administration took office have also been repackaged under the programme to avoid delays.
