Accra–Kumasi Expressway not substitute for old dualisation project — Roads Minister

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has clarified that the new Accra–Kumasi Expressway will not replace the existing dualisation project on the corridor.

The assurance comes amid public concern that ongoing work on the expressway could lead to the abandonment of the long-standing Accra–Kumasi highway expansion project.

The Accra–Kumasi Expressway, currently in its early mobilisation phase, is a 198.7-kilometre infrastructure project designed as Ghana’s first six-lane, access-controlled superhighway.

It is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Accra and Kumasi to about 2.5 hours once completed.

Speaking during a road monitoring exercise on Monday, May 11, Kwame Agbodza stressed that both projects are meant to complement each other rather than compete for attention or resources.

“Government intention to build a new road from Accra to Kumasi called the Accra–Kumasi Expressway, is not a substitute to the existing Accra–Kumasi highway,” he said.

He explained that the expressway forms part of a broader infrastructure strategy that includes multiple transport options along the same corridor.

“It is supposed to complement that project. So nobody should be afraid of the fact that, because we are doing Accra–Kumasi Expressway, it means this road is no longer a government priority,” the Minister noted.

The Adaklu MP further indicated that contractors and consultants on existing road projects will not be replaced, assuring continuity in ongoing works.

He also disclosed that government has made significant progress in settling arrears owed to contractors, describing recent payments as among the largest disbursements in a short period.

According to him, government still owes substantial sums on road projects but has already begun reducing the debt burden through payments made since assuming office.

The Minister encouraged contractors to remobilise to site while negotiations and payments continue, assuring that no project has been suspended or terminated under the current arrangements.