By Kamal Ahmed
Somanya (E/R), Sept. 8, GNA – Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Eastern Regional Minister, has cut sod for the construction of the 34-kilometre Somanya Roundabout-Dodowa Road and inner roads in Somanya under government’s Big Push infrastructure programme.
The project is expected to improve connectivity between the Eastern and Greater Accra regions, enhance road safety, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and support economic activity along the corridor.
The ceremony, held at the Akutunya Lorry Station, marked the official commencement of the project, with Oswald Investments Limited selected as the contractor.
Addressing residents, traditional leaders and other stakeholders, Mrs Awatey said the project reflected government’s commitment to addressing infrastructure deficits across the region.
She explained that government was investing in highways, feeder roads and rural roads while expanding access to education, healthcare, security infrastructure and community markets.
“These projects include feeder, community and rural roads. Most have been assessed. This government has done a lot,” she said.
Mr Thomas Ampem Nyarko, Deputy Minister for Finance and Member of Parliament for Asuogyaman, stated that the Somanya-Dodowa road was among major projects being financed under the Big Push initiative to accelerate infrastructure development.
He said while more than GH¢13 billion was committed to the programme last year, about GH¢30 billion had been allocated this year, largely for road construction.
Mr Ampem Nyarko assured the contractor of prompt payments and said delayed disbursement would not be allowed to slow execution of the project.
“I want to assure Oswald Investments that payment will not be the reason for delaying construction,” he said.
The Paramount Chief of the Yilo Krobo Traditional Area, Oklepeme Nuer Anorbah Sasraku II, welcomed the commencement of the project and described it as a significant milestone for the municipality.
He urged the contractor to ensure quality work capable of withstanding the heavy-duty trucks that frequently use the route.
The Paramount Chief also appealed to government to ensure the timely release of funds to support smooth implementation of the project.
He further called on residents to cooperate with the contractor to facilitate successful completion of the road.
The Somanya-Dodowa road project is expected to improve transportation, enhance road safety and support trade between communities in the Eastern Region and the Greater Accra corridor.
GNA
Editing by D.I. Laary/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Kamal Ahmed.
Email: [email protected]