President John Dramani Mahama has expressed strong satisfaction with the rapid progress on the Ofankor–Nsawam stretch of the Accra–Kumasi highway, exactly 90 days after his last visit to the project site.

His return followed an earlier outcry from commuters over severe delays and the deteriorating state of the road.

The president explained that work had stalled for months due to two major challenges: delays in carrying out necessary demolitions to clear the way for construction, and prolonged non-payment for works already completed.

He revealed that after directing the roads and finance ministries to intervene, more than US$70 million had been released to settle outstanding arrears and allow the contractor to resume full operations.

Mahama, who had promised a follow-up inspection after three months, said he was impressed with the transformation achieved in that period.

He encouraged the contractor to sustain the pace, noting that although the official completion date was July next year, the current momentum suggested the project could be handed over as early as April.

He also dismissed public concerns that the ongoing works on the existing highway would be abandoned following the announcement of the new Accra–Kumasi Expressway.

The president emphasised that the current alignment remained a vital national route and would continue to receive government investment.

“Work is ongoing from the Eastern Region stretch through Apeatu towards Seginam, and we will add the Ashanti Region side as well. This road will continue to serve the country even when the new expressway is completed,” he said.

He explained that the expressway would offer faster travel and provide an alternative route for heavy-duty cargo trucks, which will pay tolls, while the current highway would remain a free option for motorists.

Project Coordinator Abdulai Mahama also expressed confidence in meeting the accelerated schedule.

He cited improved earthworks and renewed financial support as key drivers of progress.

He added that the already dualised Suhum section may require additional resurfacing due to the impact of heavy trucks, and said proposals would soon be submitted to the roads ministry.

President Mahama praised the consultants and contractors for their improved performance and urged them to maintain the momentum to ensure the road was completed ahead of schedule.