President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the Ministry of Finance to release GH¢1 billion to settle payments owed to state contractors since 2017, with the disbursement expected to be completed before Christmas.
The directive was announced on Sunday, December 21, during the sod-cutting ceremony for the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project in the Bono Region, a project being undertaken under the government’s Big Push infrastructure initiative.
“I have directed the Finance Minister, Dr Ato Forson, to release GH¢1 billion to settle debts owed to contractors since 2017 before Christmas. All the contractors will be paid, and the deceased families should follow up to receive the money,” the President said.
President Mahama explained that ongoing audits are being conducted to verify outstanding claims, with a focus on certified works executed in previous years, particularly under the former administration. He therefore urged contractors to promptly submit the required documentation to avoid delays.
“I want to urge contractors to hurry up with their certificates to receive your money. Your money will only be delayed if you are lazy,” he stated.
He further assured that funds have been earmarked under the Big Push programme to enable the resumption and completion of stalled infrastructure projects across the country.
At the ceremony, the Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II, welcomed the road project and called for strict supervision to ensure quality delivery.
“I’m pleading with contractors to desist from shoddy work,” Mahama cautioned.
President Mahama described the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project as a major development boost for the Bono Region and reiterated the government’s commitment to clearing long-standing contractor arrears while reviving abandoned projects nationwide.
