Accra, May 18, GNA - Vice President Aliu Mahama, on Tuesday, held discussions at the Castle, Osu, with a joint United States delegation, which is in the country conclude negotiations on providing durable and affordable refurbished equipment to local road contractors. The delegation, led by Nathaniel E. Green, comprise of members of the Econ Village Group and Whayne Supply Company, both based in Louisville, Kentucky.

Vice President Mahama, who initiated the process by linking the Ministry of Roads and Transport to the Groups, said the low equipment base of Ghanaian contractors worried the Government because it was delaying the Government's rapid infrastructure development programme. Many contractors, he said, were unable to deliver on schedule as they lack modern and adequate machinery to do their job. However, he noted that national development process must involve local firms.

He, therefore, appealed to Ghana's development partners to assist with programmes to equip and train the contractors.

Mr Greene, for his part, said efforts were in place to ensure that the contractors get a fair and reasonable deal from Whayne Company, which would supply the equipment.

Additionally, the company would provide an after sale service, training and maintenance schemes for the beneficiaries. Econ Village Group, formed in 2000, is an NGO, which facilitates the growth of rural economies.

Dr Richard Anane, Minister of Roads and Transport, said other interventions were underway to assist contractors with equipment. The delegation, which arrived on Sunday leaves on Saturday.