By Godwill Arthur-Mensah
Accra, July 30, GNA – Parliament has passed a resolution authorising the Government, through the Ministry of Roads and Highways, to enter into a Concession Agreement with Rock Africa Limited for the reintroduction of tolling on roads and bridges under a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement.
The adoption of the Roads and Transport Committee’s report was in accordance with Article 181(5) of the 1992 Constitution and Section 12 of the Public Private Partnership Act, 2020 (Act 1039).
Under the agreement, the Concessionaire will collect tolls for a 20-year period, with 70 per cent of revenues accruing to the state and 30 per cent to the Concessionaire.
Both Majority and Minority Members of Parliament supported the arrangement, noting that the revenue generated could be used for maintenance and rehabilitation of roads.
The legislators further emphasised that the electronic collection of tolls would ensure transparency and accountability.
Road tolling has long been a feature of Ghana’s transport financing system.
However, in November 2021, government announced the suspension of toll collection, citing inefficiencies and the need to ease traffic congestion at toll booths.
The decision sparked debate over the loss of revenue for road maintenance and development.
The reintroduction of tolls under a PPP framework reflects government’s effort to mobilise private sector investment while ensuring that the state retains majority control of revenues.
By adopting electronic tolling, authorities aim to eliminate leakages, improve efficiency, and guarantee accountability in the management of funds.
The move also aligns with broader infrastructure financing strategies, as Ghana continues to grapple with funding gaps for road construction and rehabilitation.
Legislators believe the concession arrangement will provide a sustainable mechanism to maintain critical road networks and enhance mobility across the country.
GNA
Edited by Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Godwill Arthur-Mensah
Reporter’s email: [email protected]