Oppong Nkrumah cautions contractors against breaching health and safety protocols  

Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has issued a stern directive to project contractors across the country to strictly adhere to health and safety protocols on construction sites.

This call came during his recent inspection of key projects in the Abuakwa North Municipality, where he highlighted the importance of maintaining high safety standards to protect workers.

During the visit, Minister Oppong Nkrumah expressed deep concern over the observed neglect of safety gear and protocols among workers on several construction sites.

“The Works Inspectorate Unit of the Ministry has noted a worrying trend of disregard for safety gear among workers. It is imperative that contractors ensure all workers are equipped with appropriate safety gear to prevent onsite injuries or fatalities,” Oppong Nkrumah stated.

He stressed that maintaining high safety standards is not only a legal obligation but also a moral duty to protect the lives and well-being of workers.

“The health and safety of our workers should be our top priority. I urge all contractors to adhere strictly to safety regulations,” he added.

Minister Oppong Nkrumah’s inspection tour included several significant projects in the Abuakwa North Municipality.

One of the highlights was the newly completed bridge over the Birim River, a vital infrastructure project aimed at mitigating the risk of flooding in Kyebi and its environs.

The Birim River had previously overflowed its banks, causing significant disruption and displacement within the town.

During the inspection, the Minister reiterated the importance of maintaining the river to prevent future floods.

He directed the Hydro Authority to urgently dredge and remove silt from the river to ensure the smooth passage of water.

Additionally, Minister Oppong Nkrumah visited the site of the ongoing construction of a Modern Community Market Center and the Fire Service Training School, both nearing completion.

These projects are expected to enhance local commerce and improve emergency response capabilities in the region.

The Minister was impressed with the progress of work but emphasized the need for timely completion.

“I have instructed the contractors to work diligently to meet the project deadlines. These facilities are crucial for the development of our community and must be completed on schedule,” he said.

He reiterated government’s commitment to expediting construction works within Kyebi and other regions stressing that the Ministry of Works and Housing is closely monitoring all ongoing projects to ensure they adhere to quality standards and timelines.

Before the inspection, Mr Oppong Nkrumah called on Okyehene Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin.

The Minister was in the company of Deputy Minister, Dr. Prince Hamid Armah, Chief Director, Rev. Stephen Yaw Osei and other Directors of the Ministry.

The Okyehene used the opportunity to highlight pressing local concerns, particularly the need for infrastructural improvements ahead of the impending rainy season.

He urged the Minister to prioritize the dredging of waterways within Kyebi and its environs to prevent flooding.

He further encouraged the Minister to support local contractors, particularly in the construction of drains and affordable housing projects.

He by engaging local contractors, we can boost the local economy and ensure that the benefits of these projects are felt within our communities.

 “The Minister has shown exceptional dedication in his short time at the Ministry of Works and Housing. His track record as the former Minister of Information was impressive, and he has brought the same level of diligence and innovation to his current role. We are confident that with his leadership, we will see significant progress in addressing our housing needs,” the Okyehene remarked.