By John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticized the government’s District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), asserting that it was poorly conceived.
The DRIP aims to equip Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) with resources and equipment for the rehabilitation and maintenance of local roads. This initiative is part of the government’s decentralization efforts, intended to empower local authorities to drive meaningful change.
However, during a campaign tour address at the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, Mahama argued that the initiative was rushed and implemented primarily to gain political advantage.
“The DRIP initiative was not well thought through and this is evident in a video I saw on how the equipment was transported to the various localities.
“The government should have gotten payloaders to ensure an appropriate transportation of the equipment. Apart from that, some of the machines have been left unused because there are no skilled workers to operate them.”
Background
On Wednesday, July 31, President Akufo-Addo launched the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) and commissioned crucial equipment at Black Star Square.
This initiative, designed to enhance the country’s road networks, represents a significant step in the government’s efforts to decentralize development and improve the quality of life for Ghanaians.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the vital role of road infrastructure in driving economic growth and social development. “Roads connect communities, facilitate trade, provide access to education and healthcare, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for citizens,” he said.
While acknowledging the progress made in recent years, the President noted that many district roads are still in poor condition, hindering economic activities and development.
The DRIP initiative includes a comprehensive fleet of 2,240 pieces of equipment, such as motor graders, backhoes, rollers, wheel loaders, bulldozers, tipper trucks, concrete mixers, water tankers, and low beds. These machines are expected to be instrumental in the nationwide enhancement of road infrastructure.
