The government has launched a new set of road construction equipment in Tamale, the capital of the Northern Region.

The multi-billion cedi initiative, led by the Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for the Karaga Constituency, Alhaji Amin Adam, aims to boost road infrastructure in Ghana and further expand the economy.

According to the minister, the government has invested over GH¢17 billion in roads alone this year, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing rural and urban connectivity while driving equitable growth throughout the country.

He highlighted the government’s robust investment strategy, which includes GH¢11 billion allocated in the first two quarters of the year and an additional GH¢7 billion planned for the remainder.

Addressing recent claims, Anta clarified that the equipment was not funded through the MPs’ Common Fund but rather through Treasury bills to the contractor, which were used to secure bank loans for procuring the equipment.

He stressed that this investment will significantly improve road access for farmers and rural communities, facilitating easier transportation of goods to city centres.

Deputy Minister of Roads and Highways, Thomas Mbomba, underscored the importance of decentralising road construction to bridge disparities between rural and urban areas.

He urged the Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to utilise the equipment effectively to maximise benefits for Ghanaians.

For his part, Ya Na Abukari II, the Overlord of Dagbon, expressed deep satisfaction with the launch and extended gratitude to the government for its dedication to improving road infrastructure.

He emphasised that the initiative represents a crucial step in supporting economic growth and development across Ghana’s districts.

Northern Regional Minister Alhaji Alhassan Saani Saibu noted the exceptional benefits the initiative brings to the Northern Region, which will now receive 131 new pieces of equipment, including water tankers, backhoes, rollers, wheel loaders, concrete mixers, tipper trucks, and more.

According to him, this development will create 400 direct jobs and enhance the region’s road network substantially.

Munkaila Mohammed, Northern Regional Private Business Manager-Zoomlion, representing JA Plant Pool, addressed the durbar of chiefs and people, highlighting the collaboration of key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development (MLGDRD), Ministry of Finance (MoF), Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), and JA Plant Pool.

He noted that the partnership will ensure rigorous monitoring and maintenance of the equipment, facilitated by the deployment of telematic devices for tracking and fuel efficiency.

This ambitious initiative, he said, marks a significant leap forward in Ghana’s road infrastructure development, promising enhanced connectivity, economic growth, and improved quality of life for all Ghanaians.