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Work to Resume on Stalled Ofankor-Nsawam Highway Following Successful Negotiations – Roads Minister
Kwame Governs Agbodza, Ghana’s Minister for Roads and Highways, has announced that Maripoma Limited, the contractor responsible for the stalled Ofankor-Nsawam highway project, will resume work within the next three days. This decision follows successful discussions over the weekend between the government and the contractor, who had abandoned the project due to a $45 million debt.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, April 2, Mr. Agbodza acknowledged the frustrations of commuters and residents who have endured deteriorating road conditions along this vital corridor. He reassured the public that the government is committed to ensuring the project’s completion.
Government’s Commitment to the Project
The Roads Minister emphasized that the government is fully aware of the challenges caused by the incomplete road project. The Ofankor-Nsawam highway serves as a major route for many travelers, businesses, and residents, making its completion a priority. He assured the public that immediate steps have been taken to resolve the situation and that work will resume without further delay.
“We’ve been having discussions with the contractor, and I am pleased to inform the public that we have come to a conclusion. Effective immediately, the contractor will mobilize to the site and begin work,” Mr. Agbodza stated.
He further explained that both the government and the contractor have reached a mutual agreement, allowing work to recommence in the shortest possible time. “I expect Maripoma to start re-mobilizing to the site immediately. And within three days, we should see action towards completing that project,” he added.
Background of the Stalled Project
The Ofankor-Nsawam highway project has been delayed for several months due to financial constraints. Maripoma Limited halted operations after the government accrued a $45 million debt, making it difficult for the contractor to continue work. The abandoned project led to worsening road conditions, causing heavy traffic congestion, increased travel times, and discomfort for road users.
The delay in construction had sparked public outcry, with many questioning the government’s ability to fulfill its infrastructure commitments. Residents and businesses along the route have expressed their dissatisfaction, citing economic losses and transportation difficulties due to the poor state of the road.
Resolution and Way Forward
With the latest agreement between the government and Maripoma Limited, the contractor has committed to resuming work immediately. Mr. Agbodza assured the public that the government will closely monitor the progress of the project to ensure timely completion.
The minister also acknowledged that legal issues and financial constraints have affected road projects across the country, but he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving these challenges.
The resumption of work on the Ofankor-Nsawam highway is expected to ease the burden on commuters and improve transportation along the corridor. Many stakeholders hope that the renewed efforts will lead to the road’s swift completion, providing much-needed relief to road users.
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