Accra: Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has directed contractor Black Oak to vacate the Bogoso-Prestea road project site, citing unsatisfactory performance and prolonged delays, while announcing that a new contractor has already been mobilised to continue work on the critical 23-kilometre stretch.
According to Ghana Web, Agbodza addressed the Parliamentary Committee on Economy and Development, revealing that repeated efforts by the Ministry and the Ghana Highways Authority to prompt the contractor to enhance its performance had been unsuccessful. He highlighted the deteriorating condition of the Bogoso-Prestea road, which has become a significant concern for residents, motorists, and traditional leaders due to the slow pace of construction.
Agbodza further explained that the Chief Executive of the Ghana Highways Authority had engaged with the contractor multiple times to accelerate project progress. Despite consistent pressure from the authorities, work on the road remained below acceptable standards.
Agbodza stated, "So, when we went to the site, I asked him to step aside. I asked the contractor to leave the site, and as I speak to you, a new contractor has been mobilised to do the work." He emphasized that replacing Black Oak was vital to prevent further delays and ensure the timely completion of the project, which is expected to improve road connectivity and facilitate economic activities in the area.
The Minister reiterated the government's commitment to delivering critical road infrastructure and indicated that it would continue to take decisive action against contractors failing to meet contractual obligations. The reassignment of the project comes in response to longstanding concerns from residents and road users about the poor state of the Bogoso-Prestea road and the slow pace of rehabilitation works.
Agbodza expressed optimism that the new contractor would expedite work on the project and help bring relief to communities that rely on the road for transportation and commerce.