Mahama Orders Recovery of Misappropriated Pwalugu Dam Funds
President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the Attorney General to retrieve funds that were allegedly misappropriated in the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam project, which was initiated during the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo. His directive comes after revelations that $12 million had been paid to a contractor despite a lack of substantial work on the project, which was launched in November 2019. Mahama, expressing deep frustration, described the current state of the dam site as a "crime scene" and reaffirmed his determination to hold those responsible accountable. This move aligns with his broader anti-corruption campaign, Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), which aims to retrieve public funds lost to fraudulent activities. Addressing traditional rulers and residents in the Upper East Region, the President assured them that the project, originally designed to improve agriculture and economic growth, would not be left in ruins due to corruption. He emphasized that public resources should serve the people rather than be diverted for personal gain.
The Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA), which supervised the project, previously defended the payment of $11.9 million to the contractor, arguing that it was meant for mobilization rather than completed construction work. However, President Mahama is not convinced by this explanation, insisting that the disbursed funds be recovered and that those who mismanaged them face legal consequences. The Pwalugu Dam project was initially conceived as a major infrastructure initiative to support irrigation, electricity generation, and flood control in the Upper East and North East regions of Ghana. However, despite the huge financial commitment, very little physical progress has been made on the site, leading to growing concerns among stakeholders and the general public. The President's visit to the region highlighted his intention to revive abandoned projects and ensure that state funds are utilized for their intended purposes. He reassured the people that his administration is committed to completing critical national projects without allowing corruption to derail progress.
In addition to calling for accountability, Mahama has also directed the Finance Minister to make the necessary arrangements to restart the Pwalugu Dam project. He emphasized that national development must take precedence over political and financial mismanagement, stressing that his government will not tolerate wastage of public funds. This initiative forms part of his larger governance agenda, which prioritizes transparency, efficiency, and the completion of essential projects that impact communities. By taking a firm stance against corruption and demanding accountability from past officials, Mahama aims to restore public trust in the government’s ability to execute major infrastructural projects. As Ghana continues to grapple with economic challenges, the President’s firm approach to tackling financial irregularities serves as a strong message to both public officials and contractors that mismanagement of state resources will not be condoned. His administration's renewed focus on accountability and national development seeks to reinforce the principles of good governance while ensuring that abandoned projects like the Pwalugu Dam are revived for the benefit of the nation.
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