Roads and Highways Minister Hon. Asenso Boakye has stirred a national debate by advocating for the reintroduction of road tolls in Ghana, citing global best practices. Speaking at a transportation conference in Accra on Monday, Boakye emphasized the importance of toll roads as a sustainable means of funding road maintenance and infrastructure development.
“I’ve never seen any serious country where they don’t toll their roads,” Boakye asserted, referencing countries with advanced infrastructure that utilize toll systems to generate revenue for road upkeep. “Implementing tolls ensures that we have a dedicated source of funds for maintaining and improving our road networks, which is crucial for economic growth and public safety,” he added.
Boakye’s remarks come in the wake of ongoing discussions about how best to finance Ghana’s road infrastructure. The Minister argued that toll roads not only provide a steady income stream but also ensure that those who use the roads contribute directly to their maintenance.
“Countries like the United States, France, and South Africa have successfully implemented toll systems, and we can learn from their models. We must adopt strategies that will enable us to sustain our road infrastructure without over-reliance on external funding,” Boakye said.
The Roads Minister also highlighted the potential economic benefits of reintroducing tolls, including job creation and improved road safety. He proposed a transparent and efficient toll collection system to address public concerns about mismanagement and corruption. “With modern technology, we can implement electronic tolling systems that are efficient, reduce congestion, and minimize human interference,” Boakye noted.
Public reaction to Boakye’s proposal has been mixed. Some Ghanaians support the idea, recognizing the need for sustainable infrastructure funding, while others are wary of potential misuse of funds and the economic burden on commuters.
Opposition parties have been quick to respond, with some leaders expressing skepticism about the government’s ability to manage toll revenues effectively. “We need assurances that the funds collected will be used solely for road maintenance and improvements,” said Haruna Iddrisu, Minority Leader in Parliament. “The government must also consider the economic impact on everyday Ghanaians, especially those who rely on these roads for their livelihoods.”
In response to these concerns, Boakye committed to transparency and accountability in the management of toll revenues. He proposed setting up an independent oversight body to monitor the collection and use of toll funds.
As the debate continues, the Roads Minister plans to hold further consultations with stakeholders, including transport unions, civil society organizations, and the general public, to ensure broad-based support for the reintroduction of tolls.
The outcome of these discussions will be critical in determining the future of Ghana’s road infrastructure funding. The proposed toll system could mark a significant shift in how the country finances its roads, aiming to create a more sustainable and self-reliant infrastructure framework.
story filed by: Nana Kwaku Duah
