Local Contractors Urged to Be Prioritised in National Infrastructure Projects

Mr David Osei Amankwah Jnr, Managing Director of the David Walter Company, has appealed to the government to give greater priority to local contractors when awarding national infrastructure projects.

According to him, Ghanaian engineers and construction firms possess the technical expertise and competence required to deliver high-quality work comparable to that of foreign companies.

He made the call during the launch of the company’s 50th anniversary celebration in Adabraka, Accra, held under the theme “Celebrating 50 Years of Dedicated Work.”

He emphasised the importance of believing in indigenous talent, noting that countries which invested in their own contractors reaped significant long-term benefits. He added that the long-standing perception that local contractors are inefficient must be discarded.

Mr Amankwah encouraged the public and government institutions to build confidence in Ghanaian contractors, explaining that trust in the system motivates better performance and ensures the delivery of superior results.

He highlighted the crucial role the construction sector plays in driving economic growth and urged continued collaboration between the government and local companies to develop national infrastructure.

Reflecting on the company’s journey, he noted that David Walter Company, established on 12th November 1975, has employed more than 10,000 workers over the years, demonstrating how much opportunity local businesses can create when empowered.

He outlined several major projects undertaken by the firm, including works at the Jubilee House, the ADB Head Office, Golden Bean Hotel in Kumasi, Neoplan Service Centre, and multiple feeder roads. The company has also constructed over 40 bridges across the country and is now looking ahead to expanding beyond Ghana in the next phase of its growth.

He commended staff for their dedication, stating that the company’s achievements would not have been possible without their tireless contributions.

Chairman of the occasion, Mr David Rebily Asante, congratulated the company for reaching its 50-year milestone, an accomplishment he noted few businesses achieve. He encouraged workers to remain committed as the next 50 years will be even more significant for sustaining the company’s success and future ambitions.