In a determined drive to ensure the timely and quality completion of key infrastructure projects, Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, the Minister for Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, embarked on an intensive two-day inspection tour of project sites across the Western and Central Regions.

These projects, executed under the Ghana Secondary Cities Support Program (GSCSP), are pivotal to the government's broader agenda of fortifying secondary cities as engines of socio-economic growth.

During his tour, the Minister visited several Municipal and District Assemblies, including Ahanta West, Effia Kwesimintsim, Mfantseman, Assin Fosu, Agona West, and Awutu Senya East, scrutinizing the progress of roads, drains, markets, lockable stores, lorry parks, and terminals—all at various stages of completion.

Adjei-Mensah Korsah was unreserved in his praise where progress aligned with set timelines, commending the Assemblies for their dedication to these critical projects.

However, his message was unequivocal to those lagging: There will be no room for delays or requests for contract extensions. "We will not entertain any requests for extension in contract duration," the Minister declared. "These projects are essential to our nation’s development, and any delays undermine our goals for economic growth and community wellbeing."

This firm stance reflects the government’s commitment to delivering on its promises within stipulated timelines, ensuring that infrastructure serves its intended purpose without unnecessary delays.

The Minister emphasized the importance of adhering to project timelines, warning contractors that failure to meet deadlines could lead to contractual breaches and the possible cancellation of contracts.

In addition to insisting on timeliness, the Minister called for a heightened focus on quality. He urged District Assemblies to reinforce their supervisory roles, ensuring that all projects meet the highest standards of durability and efficiency.

"The quality of these projects will determine their longevity and their value to our communities. We cannot compromise on this," he stressed.

The GSCSP is more than just an infrastructure initiative; it is a vital component of Ghana's strategy to build resilient, self-sustaining secondary cities capable of driving regional development.

By providing District Assemblies with the necessary funding and capacity-building resources, the program aims to enhance service delivery and foster local economic growth.

As Adjei-Mensah Korsah concluded his tour, his directive was clear: The successful completion of these projects is non-negotiable.

The urgency and quality of the work being done today will define the future of Ghana’s secondary cities, ensuring they become vibrant, sustainable centers of development.

The Minister’s unwavering commitment to this vision sends a strong signal to all stakeholders: There is no room for complacency; the stakes are too high, and the timeline too critical for anything less than excellence.