Associate professor in International Trade and Director of Trade Growth Network, Professor Evans Akwasi Gyasi, has stressed that infrastructure is crucial for the success of the government’s 24-hour economy policy.
Speaking on Prime Morning’s News Flash, he described it as unfortunate that such a critical issue is being discussed at this stage, considering that infrastructure remains the foundation for the policy to succeed. He, however, noted that the government is only eight months old and cannot be entirely blamed, adding that it is commendable that steps have been taken swiftly.
“The good thing is, they have acted swiftly, and I think the issues around mobilization have been resolved. Funds have been released, and we hope this will be the last of it so contractors do not abandon projects. Money must be released on time so passengers do not suffer for the negligence of those who ought to act in the nation’s interest,” he remarked.
Addressing why successive governments often abandon road projects started by their predecessors, Prof. Gyasi attributed the problem to a lack of transparency. He explained that some projects are handled in secrecy even though the public funds them.
“NDC will come, NPP will come and go, but these roads are for us, the Ghanaian people. If there are no secrets and we know where the money is coming from, whether it is NDC or NPP, the roads should continue,” he stated.
Citing the 2016 transition when contractors were asked to halt projects for review, he noted that some contractors waited two to three years without payment, a practice he says still persists, although not on the same scale.
Prof. Gyasi insisted that once contracts are awarded and value-for-money audits are conducted, contractors must deliver.
“Whether there is a new government or not, contractors must do their jobs, and funds should be released according to agreed timelines established before contracts are signed,” he emphasized.
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Source: myjoyonline.com
