The Ghana Institution of Engineering has called for an independent audit of road projects under the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure programme, warning that public confidence in the initiative could be at risk without greater transparency.
The Institution is urging the Auditor-General to step in with a comprehensive technical review following growing concerns over procurement practices, particularly the reported use of single-source and restricted tendering methods in awarding contracts.
According to GhIE, the scale of investment—estimated at GHS110 billion, with about GHS85 billion already committed—makes it critical to ensure that projects deliver value for money and meet required engineering standards.
The call comes in the wake of investigative findings by The Fourth Estate, which have sparked national debate over transparency and compliance with procurement laws. While acknowledging that President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Roads Minister to respond to the concerns, GhIE insists that only an independent audit can provide objective answers and rebuild public trust.
The Institution emphasised that the audit should go beyond contract awards to examine the full lifecycle of projects, including feasibility studies, engineering designs, environmental compliance, and implementation processes.
Citing provisions in the Audit Service Act and procurement laws, GhIE stressed that adherence to established regulations is essential to protecting public resources and ensuring sustainable infrastructure development.
It clarified that its intervention is not about assigning blame but about strengthening systems, identifying gaps, and ensuring that the country’s largest infrastructure investments deliver tangible benefits.
GhIE has also pledged to support the audit process with technical expertise, urging swift action to safeguard accountability and credibility in Ghana’s infrastructure delivery.
