The Minister of Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Kwame Agbodza, has highlighted significant systemic issues plundering the nation’s road project payments and auditing processes.
Speaking at the Public Accounts Committee meeting on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the Minister pinpointed problems with auditors relying on the face value of certificates rather than actual work done, calling for an automated system to track project progress and payments.
The Minister also took issue with commitment authorization and lack of transparency, stressing that professionals in the ministry – engineers, accountants, and procurement officers – must take responsibility for ensuring accountability. “An attitude change is needed among officials to prioritize national interest,” the Minister emphasized.
On delayed Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs), the Minister acknowledged the problem of delayed payments and interest on delay payments. The ministry processes IPCs within 21-28 days, but questions the system where interest on delay payment starts from the regional engineer’s signature.
The Minister proposes changing regulations to start interest calculation from ministry authorization, seeking balance between contractor interests and payment timelines.
A major issue revealed was payments of 965 million GHC made without ministry knowledge or records, with Ministry of Finance directing contractors to Fidelity Bank without proper checks. Audits found payments to contractors not on the ministry’s list, highlighting the need for improved coordination and transparency between Ministries of Finance and Roads.
The Minister emphasized improving systems and accountability to curb malpractices, noting efforts to strengthen internal controls, monitor payments, and reconcile with Finance. “We need a robust system to prevent payment irregularities,” an official stressed.
On missing documents, the ministry acknowledged gaps in parliamentary approval, commencement certificates, and PPA approval for 9.743 billion GHC, citing previous Ministry of Finance advice to proceed without commencement warrants. The ministry is now complying with Finance’s insistence on warrants and strengthening internal audit units.
The Minister explained that over 95% of projects lack full documentation but serve critical community needs, prioritizing regularization and completion. The Road Fund should focus on core mandates, benefiting local assemblies, with proposals to limit huge projects and ensure broader benefits.
The Minister’s remarks highlight the complexities of balancing project needs with accountability and sustainability in Ghana’s road sector.
Source: Clement Akoloh/parliamentnews360.com
