Former Minister for Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has rejected allegations by Roads and Highways Minister-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza, that the Akufo-Addo administration constructed only 673 kilometres of new roads during its eight-year tenure.
Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, Asenso-Boakye asserted that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government constructed a total of 13,624 kilometres of roads between 2017 and 2025, as documented in the transition report.
“Honourable Speaker, as of December 2024, the Akufo-Addo government had constructed 13,624 kilometres of road. This figure far surpasses the 4,630 kilometres constructed by the previous government in eight years,” he stated.
Asenso-Boakye criticised Agbodza for focusing solely on the 673 kilometres of newly constructed roads, arguing that it presented a skewed picture of the NPP government’s achievements. He emphasised that the administration’s efforts included asphalt overlays, re-graveling, reconstruction, and bridge construction, all of which contributed significantly to improving the national road network.
Key Achievements Highlighted:
- Asphalt Overlays: Projects in urban centres such as Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani, and Takoradi improved road quality and facilitated transportation.
- Gravel Roads: Approximately 6,000 kilometres of gravel roads were completed, particularly benefiting rural areas.
- Reconstruction and Upgrades: 1,665 kilometres of roads were reconstructed or upgraded.
- Bridges: 35 bridges were built nationwide, enhancing connectivity.
“These projects, especially in rural areas, are vital for linking communities and improving accessibility. Dismissing them simply because they are not newly constructed roads undermines their value,” Asenso-Boakye argued.
The Bantama MP called on Parliament and the public to acknowledge the broader scope of road infrastructure development under the NPP administration, highlighting that maintenance and upgrades are essential for a sustainable and robust road network.