GhIE Gives Ghana’s Infrastructure A “D3” Grade

The Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) has issued a sobering assessment of the nation’s infrastructure, assigning it a “D3” grade. The rating, categorised as “fair” but with a dangerous propensity to decline toward “poor,” suggests that Ghana’s critical systems are struggling to meet the demands of its citizens.

Speaking during an interview, Engineer Dr. Patrick Amoah Bekoe, Vice President of the GhIE and Chairman of its public accountability committee, explained that the assessment is not a critique of any specific political administration, but rather an objective evaluation of the nation’s systemic approach to infrastructure development. He noted that the report card utilises eight criteria, including capacity, sustainability, funding, and operation and maintenance, to provide a clear picture of the state of the country’s public works.

The findings highlight a recurring theme: Ghana struggles significantly with asset preservation. Dr. Ammo observed that political leadership often favours high-profile “ribbon-cutting” projects, that is, constructing new infrastructure, over the essential task of maintaining existing facilities. This lack of prioritisation, he said, has led to rapid deterioration across several sectors.

For instance, the road sector has declined from a D3 grade in 2016 to E1, signalling a shift toward poor condition. Key factors contributing to this decline include severe funding challenges, inefficient management of the Road Fund, and a failure to manage axle loads, which accelerates road degradation.

Similarly, the health sector received an E1 rating. While attention is often focused on large, centralised hospitals, the assessment found that primary healthcare facilities at the local level lack basic equipment. The report also pointed to a critical shortage in ambulance services, with a ratio of one ambulance to every 84,000 people.

Conversely, the aviation sector was highlighted as a success story, earning a C3 grade for its focus on targeted expenditure, safety standards and resilient infrastructure.

The GhIE is recommending a paradigm shift across all sectors, urging policymakers to prioritise data-driven decision-making and sustainable maintenance practices. Dr. Ammo stressed that improving infrastructure is not merely about construction; it is about building a foundation that ensures long-term productivity and prosperity for the average Ghanaian citizen.

The Institution’s assessment is expected to feed into ongoing national conversations about infrastructure financing and maintenance culture, as stakeholders continue to push for a shift away from short-term political projects toward long-term, sustainable development planning.