Agbodza Debunks Akufo-Addo’s 11,000km Roads Claim
Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Minister-Designate for Roads and Highways, has challenged former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s claim that his administration constructed 11,000 kilometres of new roads during its tenure from 2017 to January 2025.
Vetting Highlights: Agbodza Presents Factual Data
During his vetting before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, January 20, Agbodza provided detailed evidence to counter the former President’s assertion. According to the minister-designate, official records show that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government constructed only 673 kilometres of new roads, a figure far below the touted 11,000 kilometres.
Re-Gravelling Dominated NPP’s Road Projects
Agbodza explained that the majority of the roadwork carried out by the NPP involved re-gravelling and gravelling existing roads, which accounted for 6,185.90 kilometres. He stressed that these maintenance activities, while essential, should not be conflated with the construction of entirely new roads.
“At the time of the transition, the new roads constructed amounted to 673 kilometres. The record in Parliament clearly shows that Ghana did not construct 11,000 kilometres of new roads since 2017 but rather focused on re-gravelling and gravelling,” Agbodza noted.
New Roads vs. Road Maintenance: Agbodza Sets the Record Straight
The minister-designate reiterated that while maintaining and upgrading existing roads is critical for preserving the road network, it does not equate to building new infrastructure. He pointed out that accurate reporting of road projects is essential for accountability and transparency.
“The bulk of the work which has been done is re-gravelling and gravelling, which is 6,185.90 kilometres. Ghana constructed only 673 kilometres of new roads,” he clarified.
The Road Ahead: Calls for Accountability
Agbodza’s revelations have sparked discussions on the need for accurate data and transparency in reporting government projects. His commitment to presenting the facts underscores his focus on ensuring accountability within the Roads and Highways Ministry.
By setting the record straight, Agbodza has ignited public interest in the true state of Ghana’s road network and the importance of distinguishing between new constructions and maintenance activities.