The Minister for Roads and Highways, Mr. Kwame Agbodza, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reintroducing a technologically advanced tolling system to generate revenue for road infrastructure development.
To this end, the minister has announced that Ghana will soon launch its own electronic tolling system, with the ambitious goal of establishing “the best road tolling system in Africa.”
“We are not settling for anything less than excellence,” he stated, emphasising the importance of innovation and expressing the government’s determination to dispel any doubts regarding the reintroduction of tolls.
Mr. Agbodza made these remarks in Accra on Tuesday during a courtesy call by the Turkish Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Hüseyin Güngör.
He noted that the ministry is currently in the process of obtaining approval from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) to select a transaction advisor.
“Transparency is a priority, and we welcome all capable organisations to participate in the selection process. We want the best technical and financial proposal that will enable us to operate a highly sustainable tolling system,” he stated.
The minister assured the public that his ministry would keep them informed about the progress of the tolling system’s development and the selection process for the transaction advisor.
“In a few days, the advertisement for the selection of the transaction advisor should be out. Together, we will pave the way for a brighter future in road infrastructure,” he added.
The discussions also explored opportunities for Turkish investors to contribute to the country’s road infrastructure development through the government’s flagship programme, “The Big Push.”
Mr. Agbodza further highlighted the potential for technical cooperation between the two nations and invited Turkish engineers to share their expertise in tolling systems.
“We are ready to collaborate and learn from successful models, particularly those in Turkey that utilise technology instead of traditional toll booths. Our partnership could lay a strong foundation for Ghana’s new tolling system, ensuring it is both efficient and sustainable,” he concluded.