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NPP Has Failed Ghana on Road Maintenance - Governs Kwame Agbodza

  • Jan 20, 2025
  • 2 min read

The Minister-Designate for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has taken aim at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he describes as a lack of focus on road maintenance over the past eight years. During his vetting on Monday, January 20, the Adaklu MP stressed that maintaining Ghana’s existing road network should take precedence over constructing new roads, a principle he argued the NPP administration has failed to uphold.


Governs Kwame Agbodza Criticizes NPP’s Neglect of Road Maintenance Priorities
Governs Kwame Agbodza Criticizes NPP’s Neglect of Road Maintenance Priorities

Citing official records, Agbodza highlighted a stark decline in road maintenance under the NPP government. In 2016, under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, approximately 9,000 kilometers of roads were maintained. By 2023, that figure had dropped to just 3,000 kilometers, reflecting what Agbodza referred to as a "significant neglect" of Ghana's road infrastructure.


“The principle is that you should spend more on maintaining your existing roads than on building new ones,” he remarked.
“The record maintenance we achieved in 2016 remains unmatched till today. When we maintained 9,000 kilometers, the NPP was only managing 3,000 kilometers by 2023. They have really let the country down in terms of road maintenance programs.”

Agbodza emphasized the critical role of regular road maintenance in extending the lifespan of infrastructure, reducing long-term costs, and ensuring safer travel for road users. He criticized the NPP for prioritizing new road construction projects at the expense of maintaining the country’s vast existing network, leaving many roads in a state of disrepair.

“Neglecting road maintenance undermines not only the durability of infrastructure but also the safety of citizens who depend on these roads for their daily lives,” he added.


As he prepares to assume leadership of the Roads and Highways Ministry, Agbodza has pledged to refocus efforts on road maintenance. His vision includes:


  • Increasing budgetary allocations for maintaining existing roads.

  • Instituting a more efficient road maintenance program to reverse the current trend.

  • Collaborating with stakeholders to ensure regular inspections and timely interventions to prevent further deterioration.


Agbodza’s comments have sparked debate about the balance between maintaining existing infrastructure and pursuing new road projects. While new roads are critical for expanding connectivity and fostering economic development, many believe that prioritizing maintenance ensures sustainability and avoids costly overhauls in the future.


The spotlight now turns to how Agbodza will implement his vision if confirmed, as Ghanaians await concrete measures to address the state of the country’s roads.


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