The Member of Parliament for Takoradi, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, has urged the government to prioritise durability in the design of the proposed Accra–Kumasi Expressway, emphasising that long-term wearing costs must be fully incorporated into the project.
Contributing to the debate on the concession agreement in Parliament on Wednesday December 17, 2025, Mr Darko-Mensah said the agreement between the Government of Ghana, acting through the Ministry of Roads and Highways, and the Accra–Kumasi Expressway Limited must place premium emphasis on quality and longevity.
According to him, the expressway should be constructed to last for decades, comparable to the Tema Motorway, which has served the country for many years with minimal structural failure.
“The agreement must be clear on the standards expected of the contractor. This road should be built to last at least the next 50 years,” the former Western Regional Minister stated.
Mr Darko-Mensah also called on government to mobilise between US$1.5 million and US$3 million to address sections of the ongoing works, even as the expressway project officially commences, to prevent further deterioration and cost overruns.
He emphasized that factoring in maintenance and wearing costs at the design stage would save the country significant resources in the long run and ensure value for money.
Responding to the debate, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, thanked Members of Parliament for their broad support for the project. He reiterated the government’s commitment to completing all road projects initiated by the previous administration, in line with its continuity agenda.
The Accra–Kumasi Expressway project is being undertaken by the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) through a Special Purpose Vehicle, under a concession arrangement aimed at improving connectivity between the southern and middle belts of the country and boosting economic activity along the corridor.
By: Christian Kpesese
