Road Contractors Still Owed Billions in Unpaid Arrears – Akwasi Odike

Introduction

The ongoing crisis of unpaid arrears to road contractors in Ghana has reached a critical point, with United Front Party founder Akwasi Addai Odike making startling claims about the government’s failure to settle billions in outstanding payments. This situation not only affects the contractors themselves but also has broader implications for Ghana’s infrastructure development and economic stability.

Key Points

Background

The issue of unpaid contractor arrears has been a persistent problem in Ghana’s construction and infrastructure sector. In December 2025, the government announced a GH¢1 billion payment to contractors who had been owed since 2017. However, according to Akwasi Odike, these payments have not materialized, leaving contractors in financial distress.

Analysis

The Scale of the Problem

The claim that contractors are collectively owed over ¢90 billion represents a massive financial burden on the construction industry. This figure suggests that numerous road projects across the country have been completed or are near completion, yet contractors are unable to receive payment for their work.

Impact on Contractors

Odike’s personal experience with the Berekum-Nkyekyemamu-Abrankasu road project illustrates the real-world consequences of these payment delays. Despite completing the road and having vehicles using it, he has not received payment. This situation creates a severe cash flow problem for contractors, making it difficult to:

– Pay workers and suppliers
– Take on new projects
– Maintain equipment and operations
– Meet personal financial obligations

Government Accountability

The discrepancy between the government’s claims of having paid ¢10 billion to road contractors in the past year and Odike’s assertion that no payments have been received raises serious questions about transparency and accountability in the payment process.

Practical Advice

For contractors facing similar situations:

1. **Document Everything**: Maintain detailed records of all project communications, completion certificates, and payment requests.

2. **Seek Legal Counsel**: Consult with legal experts specializing in construction law to understand your rights and options.

3. **Engage with Industry Associations**: Join contractor associations that can advocate collectively for payment issues.

4. **Consider Alternative Financing**: Explore options like invoice factoring or bridge loans to manage cash flow during payment delays.

5. **Maintain Communication**: Keep detailed records of all attempts to communicate with government agencies regarding payment status.

FAQ

Conclusion

The claims made by Akwasi Odike highlight a critical issue in Ghana’s infrastructure development sector. The alleged non-payment of billions in arrears to road contractors not only affects individual businesses but also has broader implications for the country’s economic development and infrastructure quality. As this situation unfolds, it will be crucial for the government to address these concerns transparently and work towards resolving the payment issues to ensure the sustainability of the construction industry and the timely completion of vital infrastructure projects.