ARACO Construction Limited says it has continued work on the long-delayed Bolgatanga–Sherigu–Naaga road project despite being owed nearly 60% of the contract sum, appealing to the government to release outstanding payments to enable the timely completion of the project.
Project Engineer Jikins Kusi Jnr. said the company has remained on site for more than two years despite significant payment delays, describing the funding constraints as the biggest challenge facing the project.
According to him, only about 40% of the total contract value has been paid, leaving nearly 60% outstanding, including certified payment certificates that have yet to be settled.
“Our equipment, logistics, and technical team are still on site. We have continued because the road is very important to the region, but the biggest challenge has been delayed payments. We are appealing to the government to release outstanding funds to sustain the work,” he said.
Mr. Kusi said the company had completed about 10 kilometres of prime and seal works before financial constraints slowed progress. He added that ARACO has since resumed bitumen surfacing on sections of the road using its own resources to prevent completed portions from deteriorating while awaiting payment.
He said maintaining construction quality remains the company’s priority despite the financial challenges.
“It is better to do a durable job than rush and create future defects. We are committed to delivering a lasting road for the people,” he said.
The 30-kilometre road, awarded in 2018 with construction beginning in 2019, links Bolgatanga to Sherigu, Naaga and several farming communities. It also serves as an important transport corridor connecting parts of the Upper East Region to the Upper West Region.
For years, the deteriorated condition of the road has disrupted trade, increased transport costs and exposed motorists and residents to safety risks, particularly during the rainy season when sections become difficult to use.
Residents and commuters say the contractor’s recent progress has already improved travel conditions, making movement easier and reducing delays in transporting farm produce to markets in Bolgatanga. They believe the completed road will further improve safety, lower transport costs, strengthen trade and enhance connectivity between communities.
Many also praised ARACO Construction Limited for continuing work despite the funding challenges and called on the government to settle the outstanding arrears to ensure uninterrupted construction and the timely completion of the project.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
