The Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry (GhCCI) has issued a stark warning that Ghana’s ongoing infrastructure projects risk grinding to a halt due to government delays in releasing long-overdue payments to contractors, consultants, and suppliers.
According to the Chamber, the failure to honour Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) under the government’s Big Push Agenda has pushed many local construction firms to the edge of collapse.
In a statement signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Emmanuel A. Cherry, the GhCCI expressed frustration over what it described as a “crippling liquidity crisis” affecting the sector, despite repeated assurances from President John Dramani Mahama that arrears would be cleared by the end of July 2025.
“The prolonged delay in effecting payments is inflicting severe financial hardship across the construction ecosystem,” the statement noted. “Many contractors are unable to meet payroll obligations, while consultants and suppliers are accumulating arrears.”
Mr. Cherry cautioned that without immediate financial intervention, numerous infrastructure projects could be abandoned, resulting in job losses and a loss of public confidence in the government’s infrastructure commitments.
Ripple Effect Across the Industry
The statement highlighted that the delayed payments have created a domino effect, with contractors struggling to pay statutory obligations to institutions like the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
Some firms, the Chamber disclosed, are already facing enforcement actions due to unpaid social security and tax liabilities.
Erosion of Confidence
While commending the vision behind the Big Push Agenda, the GhCCI warned that the continued delay was eroding trust between the government and private sector players who form the backbone of Ghana’s infrastructure drive.
“If the government fails to act swiftly, the confidence of private sector investors and development partners could be undermined, putting the future of Ghana’s construction industry at risk,” the statement warned.
Call for Structured Payment Plan
To avert further crisis, the Chamber proposed that the government establish a transparent, time-bound payment schedule and engage key stakeholders, including GhCCI, to ensure accountability in future disbursements.
“Prompt action in this regard will safeguard thousands of jobs, sustain ongoing infrastructure works, and uphold trust between Government and the private sector,” it added.
The Chamber’s appeal underscores growing anxiety among industry players who say the sector — once seen as a key pillar of Ghana’s economic recovery — is now teetering on the verge of stagnation due to cash flow constraints.
