Mahama orders GH¢1bn payment to contractors owed since 2017

President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Ministry of Finance to release GH¢1 billion to contractors owed by the state since 2017.

The payment, he said, is to be made before Christmas.

The President announced the directive during a sod-cutting ceremony for the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project in the Bono Region on Sunday, December 21, under the Big Push programme.

“I have directed the Finance Minister, Dr. Ato Forson, to release GH¢1 billion to settle debts owed to contractors since 2017 before Christmas. All the contractors will be paid, and the deceased families should follow to receive the money,” he said.

He explained that audits are ongoing, and the government is settling outstanding certified works, particularly those executed under the previous administration.

President Mahama encouraged contractors to submit their documents promptly: “I want to urge contractors to hurry up with their certificates to receive your money. Your money will only be delayed if you are lazy.”

“I have directed the Finance Minister, Dr. Ato Forson, to release GH¢1 billion to settle debts owed to contractors since 2017 before Christmas. All the contractors will be paid, and the deceased families should follow to receive the money,” he said.

He reiterated that funds have been allocated for contractors under the Big Push programme, aimed at reviving and completing stalled infrastructure projects nationwide.

At the event, the Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II, welcomed the project and urged strict supervision to avoid poor-quality construction.

“I’m pleading with contractors to desist from shoddy work,” he cautioned.

President Mahama described the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project as a vital investment for the Bono Region and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to clearing long-standing contractor arrears and restarting abandoned projects across the country.