The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has announced a strategic policy shift in Ghana’s road infrastructure investment, placing a renewed focus on the country’s underserved northern regions, particularly the Savannah Region.
Speaking at the 49th Annual Congress of the National Gonjaland Youth Association in Sawla, Mr Agbodza emphasized President John Dramani Mahama’s resolve to correct the imbalance in road development, which has long favoured southern regions such as Greater Accra and Ashanti.
“It appears 70% of our expenditure on roads is spent in the South, especially between Greater Accra and Ashanti Region. That is not equity in development. We shall rewrite that,” Mr Agbodza declared. “We’ll reallocate resources to touch people in this part of the country.”
Hon Agbodza assured participants that the Savannah Region will see significant investment in upcoming road projects as part of the government’s inclusive development agenda.
Hon. Agbodza also issued a strong warning to contractors expected to execute these projects. “The government will not compromise on quality. Deliver the work or forfeit the contract,” he said while commending those who have remained committed despite delays in payments.
Themed “Harnessing Natural Resources for Development in Gonjaland: The Role of the Youth,” the congress addressed pressing development issues such as land disputes, security challenges, and infrastructure gaps.
Also addressing the gathering, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu announced that the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission will provide a pick-up vehicle to the Savannah College of Education within 30 days. He reaffirmed President Mahama’s pledge to establish a public university in every region, including Savannah.
Savannah Regional Minister Salifu Be-Awuribe lauded ongoing efforts to review the 1930 Constitution of the Gonja Kingdom, calling it a necessary step toward harmonizing traditional authority with modern governance systems.
Source: myjoyonline
