By: Ashiadey Dotse
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the Minister of Finance will allocate GHC 30.8 billion in the 2026 budget to support the government’s Big Push road construction programme.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the Wa–Tumu–Han road at Guli in the Upper West Region on Tuesday November 11, 2025, President Mahama said the massive investment forms part of efforts to open up the northern transport corridor and promote inclusive national development.
He explained that the Big Push initiative will see the construction and upgrading of more than 260 kilometres of roads across the Upper West Region, linking key areas such as Wa, Tumu, Han, Lawra, and Navrongo.
“These roads are not just about asphalt and bridges; they are about people, livelihoods, and opportunities,” he said. “Every Ghanaian, whether in Wa, Accra, Navrongo or Kumasi, deserves the same quality of roads and the same dignity of access.”
President Mahama added that the 2026 budget funding will follow this year’s allocation of GHC 13.8 billion to the same programme, emphasizing that all certified contractors will receive prompt payments to ensure that no project is abandoned.
He assured residents that when completed, travel time between Wa and Tumu will reduce from four hours to less than two and a half hours, cutting transport costs and improving access to education, health care, and trade.
The President noted that the project will also create over 2,500 direct jobs and 7,000 indirect jobs for artisans, engineers, and service providers, with a strong focus on using local materials and labour.
President Mahama reiterated his commitment to building quality and durable infrastructure that serves generations, adding, “When the NDC builds, we build with the people, for the people, and by the people.”
