By Sarah Baafi
The Government of Ghana has assured the public that ongoing and future road projects will prioritize long-term durability and stricter enforcement against overloading, following widespread concerns over the rapid deterioration of roads.
Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, speaking in an exclusive interview on GTV Breakfast Show on Monday,January 26, 2026 emphasized that investments in road infrastructure are designed for productivity, longevity, and safety. “Some roads in Ghana fail within a year, not because contractors did poor work, but because vehicles are overloaded,” he explained, adding that overloading is a major factor undermining road lifespan.
Agbodza highlighted that measures are being put in place to strengthen enforcement against overloaded cargo vehicles. “The polling policy will come with technology to ensure that vehicles exceeding axle load limits are prevented from using roads,” he said. The Minister stressed that the government is committed to political will and legislative backing to make enforcement effective, adding that penalties for violations have been increased.
He also spoke on the financing and construction of new expressways, explaining that greenfield projects are currently in the design and feasibility phase, with construction expected to begin later this year. “By mid-year, we expect to cut the first sod for these expressways. These roads will offer motorists a choice: pay a higher toll for faster travel or use existing roads,” Agbodza noted.
On the question of road materials, the Minister assured Ghanaians that the design lifespan and quality of roads will be prioritized. “Concrete or asphalt will be chosen based on cost-effectiveness over 50 years. Durability is key,” he said, adding that Ghana invests more in roads than neighboring countries, but poor compliance with axle load limits has undermined past efforts.
Regarding contractors, Agbodza confirmed that the government has resumed payments, with GH₵10 billion paid as arrears as of December 31, 2025, enabling previously stalled road projects to continue. “No road project initiated under the previous administration has been abandoned,” he said, noting that contractors are now remobilizing to sites following assurances of payment.
The Minister concluded that the combination of durable construction, technological enforcement, and stricter adherence to road-use laws will significantly improve road quality and longevity in Ghana, benefiting both commerce and the public.
