The Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry has outlined its expectations following the nomination of Governs Kwame Agbodza as Minister-designate for Roads and Highways.

The Chamber is urging targeted reforms to address critical challenges in the sector.

CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, Emmanuel Cherry, wants the nominee to prioritise uncapping the Road Fund to ensure sufficient financing for road infrastructure projects.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Thursday, January 16, 2025, Mr. Cherry emphasised the need for an effective and well-functioning Road Fund Board.

“The challenge currently bedevilling the entire sector is about the Road Fund Board itself which is not functioning properly. The Board which is supposed to at least bring the checks and balances into the system, has not been up to its game. Kwame Agbodza played an integral role because we called on him and his committee any time.  So, he is aware of the challenges in there,” he stated.

Mr. Cherry highlighted Mr. Agbodza’s prior contributions as a committee member in addressing road sector challenges.

He expressed optimism that as minister, Mr. Agbodza would advocate for reforms, including appealing to the President and the Finance Minister to uncap the Road Fund.

“So, as he is coming, we believe that with his fresh energy, he will appeal to the president through the finance minister to uncap the road fund for the Board to be able to finance some of it costs and live up to its functions and mandate,” he added.

The Road Fund in Ghana, established by the Road Fund Act of 1997 (Act 536), finances the maintenance and rehabilitation of public roads.

Managed by the Road Fund Management Board, which includes representatives from key institutions such as the Ministries of Finance and Local Government, the board oversees contractor payments and seeks additional funding sources.

Revenue for the fund comes from fees collected from road users. Its primary purpose is to ensure well-maintained roads, facilitating the movement of goods, access to health services and consistent school attendance.