Parliament has greenlit a GHS 3.2 billion allocation for the Ministry of Roads and Highways for the 2025 fiscal year, a move aimed at bolstering infrastructure development and addressing staffing needs within the sector.

The funds will support key projects, including the recruitment of 137 new staff by the Ghana Highway Authority to fill positions left open by the creation of new regions and regional offices. As part of the Ministry’s decentralisation push, this effort is expected to improve operational efficiency. Additionally, the budget will fund the dualisation and safety upgrades of major trunk roads across the country, alongside ongoing work on bypasses along the busy Accra-Kumasi Highway, including at Osino, Anyinam, Enyiresi, and Konongo.

Despite the approval, the government’s financial strategy has drawn sharp criticism. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin expressed frustration during the budget’s final debate, calling the plan “uninspiring” and accusing the government of ignoring the private sector. “It’s why they can’t point to any initiative for the private sector,” Afenyo-Markin said. “What is the work of the Trade Minister? What’s the role of the adviser for the 24-Hour Economy?”

With Parliament expected to pass the Appropriation Act by the end of the week, the debate around government spending and economic policy continues to dominate discussions, with the Minority raising concerns about the future direction of the country’s economy.

Source:TheDotNews