Prez Mahama Directs Release of GH¢1 Billion to Settle Contractor Arrears
President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Ministry of Finance to release one billion Ghana cedis to contractors owed by the state since 2017, with payments expected to be completed before Christmas.
The President announced the directive on Sunday, December 21, during the sod-cutting ceremony for the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project in the Bono Region. The project forms part of the government’s Big Push programme, which aims to revive and complete stalled infrastructure projects across the country.
According to President Mahama, the payment is intended to clear long-standing arrears owed to contractors for certified works, many of which were executed under previous administrations. He explained that audits are currently ongoing to verify outstanding claims and ensure that only legitimate and certified works are paid for.
“I have directed the Finance Minister, Dr. Ato Forson, to release GH¢1 billion to settle debts owed to contractors since 2017 before Christmas. All contractors will be paid, and families of deceased contractors should also come forward to receive the money owed them,” the President stated.
He urged contractors to cooperate fully with the process by submitting their documentation promptly, warning that unnecessary delays could slow down payments. “I want to urge contractors to hurry up with their certificates to receive your money. Your money will only be delayed if you are lazy,” he added.
President Mahama further assured that additional funds have been allocated under the Big Push programme to support the completion of abandoned and stalled projects nationwide, describing the initiative as a key pillar of the government’s infrastructure development agenda.
At the ceremony, the Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II, welcomed the road project and appealed for strict supervision to ensure quality work. He cautioned contractors against shoddy construction, stressing the importance of durability and value for money.
President Mahama described the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project as a critical investment that will boost economic activity in the Bono Region and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring confidence in the construction sector by settling arrears and restarting long-delayed projects.
