Stalled projects and lost billions: Philanthropist Kwame Ampofo calls for private sector-led revolution in Ghana’s road construction

Prominent businessman and philanthropist Kwame Ampofo, widely known as Ortega, has issued a strong challenge to Parliament and the government, urging them to dismantle legislative barriers and open the nation’s road infrastructure sector to private financing. His call to action comes in response to the persistent and costly problem of stalled and abandoned government road projects across the country.

Mr. Ampofo argues that the current system, which often leaves non-performing contractors holding projects for years without consequence, is bleeding the nation of millions of cedis and stifling economic growth. He is proposing a radical shift in policy to allow capable private individuals and companies to step in where the state has faltered.

“It is unacceptable that some contractors hold onto road projects for extended periods without delivering, leaving communities to suffer poor transportation, disrupted trade, and reduced economic activity,” Mr. Ampofo stated.

He outlined a two-pronged approach to tackle the crisis. First, he called for strict enforcement measures against defaulting contractors. “Government and Parliament must put measures in place to revoke contracts from any contractor who fails to honor their obligations,” he asserted. “Once a contract is revoked, it should be reassigned to individuals or companies with the financial and technical capacity to complete the work promptly.”

Secondly, Mr. Ampofo championed a legislative overhaul to create a conducive environment for private investment. He pointed to the model in Nigeria, where private citizens frequently fund and construct roads in their communities, effectively complementing government efforts and accelerating development.

However, he warned that Ghana’s existing legal frameworks actively discourage such patriotism. “If an individual attempts to fund or support a stalled project while it is under contract, the original contractor may take legal action. This creates unnecessary delays and discourages patriotic Ghanaians who are willing to invest their resources into national development,” he explained. Reforming these laws, he argued, would unlock a new wave of funding, increase accountability, and ensure timely project completion.

Connecting Development with Environmental Protection

Expanding his critique beyond infrastructure, Mr. Ampofo also addressed the nation’s ongoing environmental crisis, particularly the devastation caused by illegal mining, or galamsey. He called for the immediate establishment of government-backed task forces in mining communities to reclaim degraded lands and enforce regulations to protect water bodies and farmlands.

“Development and environmental protection must go hand in hand,” he emphasized. “We cannot build roads and other infrastructure while allowing our lands and water bodies to be destroyed. Strong policies, effective enforcement, and collaboration with private individuals and communities are essential for sustainable progress.”

Mr. Ampofo concluded with a direct appeal to lawmakers and government authorities to urgently review Ghana’s road contract laws. He stressed that embracing private sector participation is not just about fixing potholes, but about creating a dynamic partnership that will stimulate economic growth, foster national pride, and build a more resilient future for all Ghanaians.