President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Ministry of Finance to release GH¢1 billion to contractors owed by the state. The payment will be made before Christmas to ease long-standing financial pressures.
The President made this announcement during a sod-cutting ceremony in the Bono Region. The event marked the start of the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project.
The ceremony took place on Sunday, December 21, under the government’s Big Push programme. The programme focuses on reviving stalled and abandoned infrastructure projects nationwide.
President Mahama said the directive targets contractors who have not been paid since 2017. He explained that the government is committed to settling these arrears promptly.
He stated that the Finance Minister has been instructed to act without delay. The Minister in charge is Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
President Mahama assured contractors that all verified claims will be paid. He also mentioned that families of deceased contractors should come forward to receive payments.
The President explained that audits are still ongoing across various ministries and agencies. These audits are helping to confirm certified and completed works.
He said the government is prioritising payments for works already inspected and approved. Many of these projects were executed under the previous administration.
President Mahama urged contractors to submit their documents on time. He said delays would occur only if contractors fail to act promptly.
He used strong words to stress the importance of cooperation from contractors. He warned that laziness could slow down the payment process.
The President repeated that funds have already been allocated for the Big Push programme. He said this funding will support the completion of critical national projects.
According to him, the Big Push programme will boost economic activity across the country.It will also create jobs and improve access to essential services.
President Mahama described the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road as a strategic project. He said the road will improve transportation and trade in the Bono Region.
He noted that the road will connect farming communities to major markets. This connection will help farmers transport goods more easily.
Traditional leaders in the area welcomed the project with appreciation. They described it as long overdue for the people.
The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II, spoke at the ceremony. He urged contractors to maintain high construction standards.
He warned against poor-quality work on public projects. He said shoddy construction wastes public resources.
The Dormaahene also called for strict supervision by engineers and officials. He said quality assurance should be a top priority.
President Mahama agreed with the concerns raised by the traditional ruler. He said the government will ensure proper monitoring of the project.
He reaffirmed his commitment to clearing contractor debts nationwide. He said abandoned projects will be revived under his administration.
The President concluded by assuring Ghanaians of transparent use of public funds. He said accountability will guide all government infrastructure spending.
Source : Citinewsroom.com
FOR MORE NEWS UPDATES KINDLY JOIN OUR WHATSAPP CHANNEL
Post a Comment