Parliament has approved a budget allocation of GHS 3.2 billion for the Ministry of Roads and Highways for the 2025 fiscal year, aimed at boosting infrastructure development and addressing staffing needs. The funding is expected to support ongoing and new road projects, enhance transportation networks, and facilitate the recruitment of additional personnel to strengthen the ministry’s operations.
As part of the budgetary provisions, the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) is set to recruit 137 new staff to fill existing gaps, particularly in response to the establishment of new regions and regional offices. The recruitment forms part of the government’s decentralisation efforts, ensuring that road infrastructure management is more efficient and accessible across the country.
A significant portion of the budget will be directed towards the dualisation of major trunk roads and the enhancement of road safety measures nationwide. Among the key projects outlined, the Ministry will continue construction on the Accra-Kumasi Highway bypasses at Osino, Anyinam, Enyiresi, and Konongo. These bypasses are expected to ease congestion and improve travel times on one of Ghana’s busiest highways.
Minority Criticises 2025 Budget for Lack of Private Sector Focus
Despite the allocation for road projects, the 2025 national budget has faced sharp criticism from the Minority in Parliament, with Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin describing the government’s financial plan as uninspiring and lacking support for private sector growth.
During the concluding debate on the budget, Afenyo-Markin expressed concerns over what he described as contradictions in the government’s economic policies. He argued that the budget fails to introduce tangible initiatives to support businesses, making it difficult for the private sector to thrive.
“It is the reason why they are unable to tell us a single initiative for the private sector,” Afenyo-Markin stated. “I ask a question: What is the work of the Trade Minister? They say they have an adviser for the 24-Hour Economy. What is his work?”
The Minority’s concerns highlight broader economic policy challenges, particularly regarding government expenditure and the lack of incentives for businesses. Opposition lawmakers have called for a more comprehensive strategy that fosters economic growth, encourages investments, and provides relief for struggling enterprises.
For the past two weeks, Parliament has been engaged in heated debates over the 2025 budget statement, with discussions centering on Ghana’s fiscal policies, economic direction, and government spending priorities. The final approval process is underway, with the Appropriation Act expected to be passed by Friday.
As Ghana moves forward with its economic plans for 2025, the effectiveness of government spending and its impact on job creation, infrastructure development, and business growth will remain a key area of scrutiny.
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