President John Mahama is keeping his word. The 2025 national budget has earmarked a substantial GH¢13.85 billion for the “Big Push” programme, a flagship initiative designed to aggressively address Ghana’s persistent infrastructure deficit. This significant investment signals a determined commitment to accelerating economic growth and improving the quality of life for all Ghanaians.
Infrastructure development has long been recognised as a critical catalyst for economic progress. From facilitating trade and transportation to providing access to essential services like water, sanitation, and electricity, robust infrastructure underpins almost every facet of a thriving nation. The Big Push programme, as envisioned by President Mahama, seeks to strategically address the key bottlenecks hindering Ghana’s development and unlock its vast potential.
While specific details of the projects to be funded under the Big Push are yet to be fully unveiled, the programme is expected to encompass a wide range of infrastructure sectors. Road construction and rehabilitation are anticipated to be a major focus, aiming to improve connectivity between regions and facilitate the movement of goods and services. This includes upgrading existing highways, building new feeder roads to connect rural communities, and investing in modern traffic management systems to ease congestion in urban centres.
Beyond roads, the Big Push is likely to prioritise investments in railway infrastructure. Reviving and expanding Ghana’s railway network would offer a more efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transport, reducing reliance on road transport and lowering transportation costs for businesses and individuals alike. This could involve rehabilitating existing lines, constructing new routes connecting key economic hubs, and investing in modern rolling stock.
The programme is also expected to address critical gaps in energy infrastructure. Investments in power generation, transmission, and distribution are crucial for ensuring a reliable and affordable electricity supply, which is essential for both industrial growth and household consumption. This could include developing renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, upgrading existing power plants, and expanding the national grid to reach underserved communities.
Furthermore, the Big Push is likely to include projects aimed at improving access to water and sanitation services. Investing in water treatment plants, distribution networks, and sanitation facilities would contribute to improved public health, reduced waterborne diseases, and a healthier environment.
The allocation of GH¢13.85 billion for the Big Push is a significant step towards realisng President Mahama’s vision of a modern and prosperous Ghana. However, the success of the programme hinges on effective implementation, transparency, and accountability. It is crucial that the funds are managed efficiently, projects are carefully selected based on their economic and social impact, and that processes are transparent to ensure public trust and prevent corruption.
The government will need to ensure that local contractors are given opportunities to participate in the Big Push programme, fostering local capacity building and promoting economic empowerment. Furthermore, collaboration with the private sector is essential to leverage their expertise and resources.
The Big Push programme presents a unique opportunity to transform Ghana’s infrastructure landscape and propel the nation towards sustained economic growth and improved living standards.
By addressing critical infrastructure deficits in a strategic and efficient manner, President Mahama aims to lay the foundation for a brighter future for all Ghanaians. The coming years will be crucial in monitoring the implementation of the programme and assessing its long-term impact on the Ghanaian economy and society. The focus now shifts to ensuring that the ambitious goals of the Big Push translate into tangible improvements on the ground, benefiting communities across the country and solidifying President Mahama’s legacy.
