NPP’s ambitious infrastructure plan to create fiscal space of 3% of GDP

Ahead of the December polls, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has outlined an ambitious plan to significantly expand public infrastructure across the country.
This comprehensive strategy aims to partner with the private sector to reduce government expenditure while ensuring efficient service delivery and maintenance.

PPP collaboration for infrastructure development
The NPP’s plan includes incentivizing the private sector to complement the government in providing infrastructure and other services.
By encouraging private businesses to build roads, schools, hostels, and houses for government rental or lease-to-own schemes, the government seeks to alleviate the financial burden traditionally placed on the national budget.
One of the critical areas highlighted is road construction.
The demand for roads has historically put immense pressure on government resources.
To address this, the party proposes a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, where private companies will finance the construction and maintenance of roads through concession arrangements.

Leasing rather than purchasing equipment
To further reduce expenditure, the manifesto outlines plans for the government to move toward leasing vehicles, printing equipment, and other resources instead of outright purchases. The private sector will also be responsible for maintaining this equipment, offering potential savings across multiple Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.

Boosting jobs and fiscal space
This shift toward private sector involvement in public services is expected to create many jobs and provide fiscal space of at least 3% of Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The approach represents a major paradigm shift in how public services are managed and financed.

Revamping the public works department
In a bid to ensure sustainable maintenance of public assets, the manifesto also proposes reviving and resourcing the Public Works Department (PWD).
The PWD will play a crucial role in maintaining public infrastructure, ensuring that these investments serve the public effectively over the long term.

Expansion of DRIP
To enhance connectivity and accessibility, the NPP plans to expand the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).
This initiative will assist local governments in maintaining road networks, improving both rural and urban roads to facilitate economic activities and ensure access to essential services.

Railway and airport development
A significant part of the infrastructure plan focuses on the development of the railway network, with particular attention to the Western and Eastern Lines.
This will bolster transportation, ease the movement of goods and people, and promote regional trade.
Additionally, the manifesto highlights plans to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Tamale Airport.
This facility will cater to aviation and horticultural cargo, enhancing the airport’s capacity and positioning it as a key regional hub.
Cape Coast and Upper East Airport projects
Another noteworthy project is the development of Cape Coast Airport, funded by a $2 billion facility from Korea.
This project is expected to boost tourism and economic activities in the Central Region.
The NPP also plans to collaborate with the private sector to build an airport in the Upper East Region, further emphasizing the party’s commitment to equitable development across the country.

Universal electricity access and nationwide development
The NPP’s manifesto outlines a goal to achieve universal electricity access, reflecting a broader commitment to ensuring that all regions benefit from national development projects.
As the 2024 elections approach, the NPP’s infrastructure plan is poised to be a critical component of their campaign, promising to drive economic growth, improve public services, and uplift communities nationwide.