Tema-Kpone road had no valid contract or approved scope of work – Roads Minister

Roads Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza has revealed that the construction of the Tema-Kpone Junction road has been impeded by the lack of a valid contract and an approved scope of work. During a tour of Big Push projects in the Greater Accra Region, Agbodza stated that the project will be restructured and completed under the government’s Big Push initiative.

The Minister explained that the existing arrangement for the road must be completely overhauled before work can proceed effectively. He emphasized that the original scope and perhaps the contract are in need of significant revision, as there is no assurance of a valid contract. Agbodza noted that although the contractor had been working on the road since President John Mahama took office, there was never an approved contract or scope of work that guided the project.

This absence has led to the perception among residents and businesses that the contractor is not working or being paid, despite being present on the job. The Minister assured that President Mahama has directed the completion of the road from the TOR roundabout through the relevant section as a concrete dual carriageway, while also committing to finishing the stretch from Medina to the Kpone Barrier.

Under the Big Push programme, the government pledged to cover all costs associated with the project's completion. The Tema-Kpone road has long been a source of concern for commuters and heavy-duty vehicle operators, causing considerable inconvenience due to its poor condition. Recently, tanker drivers staged a sit-down strike to demand urgent government intervention to address the road's state.

Agbodza also questioned the level of support from corporate institutions in the Tema industrial enclave towards improving road infrastructure in the area. He pointed out that major companies like VALCO and the Tema Oil Refinery operate near the area and benefit from the road network. Agbodza expressed frustration that while Ghanaians and corporate citizens are willing to pay for electricity and water extensions, there is little enthusiasm for investing in road improvements.