Youth in Kenyase, Ahafo region, are contemplating a protest following the abrupt abandonment of a road project despite the contractor receiving full payments.
Kofi Job Construction Limited, tasked with upgrading the Hwidiem-Kenyase road by Newmont Ghana Gold Ahafo Mine, was fully paid 95.4 million cedis. However, the contractor has deserted the site, leaving the road project incomplete.
According to reports, nearly 60% of the road was reconstructed with asphalt before the contractor's disappearance. The unfinished road has resulted in adverse consequences for the community, with buildings along the stretch losing their original appearance due to dust and mud. Economic activities have been severely impacted, with local shops closing down, and residents experiencing health issues from the dusty environment.
The road project, initially estimated at GH₵70.3 million, experienced delays early this year when the contractor demanded additional payments due to inflationary pressures and deteriorating road conditions. Newmont, after a re-evaluation, agreed to cover the increased cost, leading to a full payment to the contractor through the Ministry of Roads and Highways. However, despite receiving payment, the contractor has not resumed work, leaving the project halfway completed.
Expressing dissatisfaction, the Akwamuhene of Kenyase No. 2, Nana Owusu Boadu Ayeboafo, stated, “After payment, we haven't seen the contractor on site again.” Residents and road users have voiced their concerns, citing frequent car tire damages and the closure of shops due to the road's poor condition.
Nana Boadu Ayeboafo criticized the Ghana Highways Authority for certifying full payment to the contractor without ensuring project completion. The discontent among residents has led to threats of protests against the local government, demanding the swift completion of the road works.
Ahafo-Kenyase No. 2 Youth Development Leader, Abdul Karim Yeboah, affirmed the residents' resolve to take action, stating, “We will demonstrate to whoever is responsible to ensure that this road is fixed.”