President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding Ghana’s road infrastructure under the “Big Push” initiative, with the official sod-cutting for the reconstruction of the Wenchi–Bole–Sawla–Wa Road.

Speaking at the ceremony in Sawla, the president said the project marked the beginning of a new phase of national infrastructure development aimed at connecting regional capitals, improving transportation efficiency, and boosting trade across the country and beyond.

“Today we are here in Sawla not just to cut sod, but to open a new corridor of progress  to reconnect regions, markets, and families; to affirm that every part of Ghana deserves modern infrastructure, dignity, and opportunity,” he said.

The Wenchi–Wa Road, spanning about 195 kilometres, forms part of the National Route N12, which runs from Techiman through Wenchi, Bamboi, Bole, and Sawla to Wa, continuing northward to Hamile on Ghana’s border with Burkina Faso. The corridor plays a critical role in the movement of agricultural produce such as yams, cashew, grain, and livestock from the Bono East Region to northern Ghana and the Sahel.

President Mahama noted that due to years of neglect, the road had become unsafe and inefficient, with vehicle operating costs increasing by nearly 40 percent and travel time from Wenchi to Wa stretching to over eight hours. The new project, he said, will completely reconstruct and widen the corridor, provide improved drainage systems, asphalt surfacing, and safety features such as road markings and guardrails.

“This is not going to be an ordinary road. It will be an asphalt highway built to international standards. When completed, travel time will be cut by more than half, vehicle operating costs will reduce by 40 percent, and accidents by about 45 percent,” he emphasised.

The project is divided into seven lots to ensure simultaneous construction and early completion within 24 months. Contractors working on the project include CIWE, Polychangda Overseas Engineering Company, China Railway No. 5 Engineering Company, and Ghana’s Maripoma Limited.

President Mahama also announced the rehabilitation of the Fufuso–Sawla Road and plans for the Bole–Chache Road, which will link Ghana to Côte d’Ivoire through a newly constructed bridge across the Black Volta.

He reiterated that the “Big Push” initiative will transform Ghana into a “construction site” over the next two years, as roads across all regions are rebuilt under a coordinated national plan.

“I ask Ghanaians to be patient with us and accept the temporary inconvenience. Twenty-four months after the launch of the Big Push, Ghana will have some of the best roads in West Africa,” he assured.

The president further urged local residents to take advantage of job opportunities created by the project and cautioned against overloading trucks and building illegal speed ramps that damage newly constructed roads.

“The Big Push is about fairness and equity — ensuring that both north and south develop together. Infrastructure is the backbone of a prosperous economy. What we are beginning today is more than a construction project; it is a covenant of hope,” he concluded.

President Mahama ended his address with a call for national unity and commitment to the success of the Big Push and the 24-Hour Economy agenda.