Africa-Press – Ghana. Mr Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the Minister for Works and Housing, has lauded the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry (GhCCI) for its sustained commitment to promoting excellence, professionalism and innovation within the country’s construction ecosystem.
Speaking at the 2024–2025 Ghana Construction Industry Excellence Awards in Accra, the Minister described the construction sector as a critical pillar of national development, driving infrastructure delivery, job creation, investment and economic transformation.
“Every road we drive on, every school building, hospital block, bridge, drain and housing project begins with the skills and dedication of men and women in this sector,” he said.
The ceremony, held under the theme “Advancing the Construction Industry Through Infrastructure Development – The Big Push Agenda”, provided a platform to honour individuals and institutions that uphold the highest standards of professionalism and innovation.
Mr Adjei emphasized that the Big Push Agenda was not merely a slogan but a strategic framework to strengthen partnerships between government and the private sector to deliver sustainable, modern and resilient infrastructure.
He noted that government alone could not build the Ghana desired, stressing the need for collaboration among contractors, consultants, engineers, designers and private sector actors operating responsibly.
“As a ministry, we remain committed to enhancing transparency, efficiency and accountability in the delivery of public infrastructure,” he said, adding that measures were being taken to strengthen monitoring systems, enforce quality assurance, streamline procurement and ensure timely completion of projects.
The Minister assured the Chamber of continued dialogue to address challenges such as financing gaps, capacity building, technology integration and regulatory compliance.
He congratulated award recipients for setting benchmarks that inspire confidence and urged all industry players to embrace innovation, observe ethical practices and strive for world-class standards.
The event also featured remarks from traditional leaders and industry stakeholders, who called for improved payment schedules, robust financing mechanisms, land administration reforms and the establishment of a Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA) to regulate and standardize the sector.
On his part, the Ga Mantse, King Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, called for a comprehensive revision of Accra’s master plan to address congestion, unplanned settlements, poor sanitation, and inadequate drainage systems that continue to plague the capital city.
He emphasized that infrastructure development is the backbone of national progress and urged government and private sector players to form a strong, well-coordinated coalition to modernize Accra.
“Accra remains the heartbeat of Ghana, yet it is choked with congestion and unplanned settlements. The capital city should reflect the aspirations of its people – clean, efficient, and livable,” he said.
The Ga Mantse proposed a sustainable decongestion strategy, revitalization of inner-city communities, investment in green spaces, waste management systems, and efficient transport corridors.
He stressed that new planned urban centers must be created to support population growth and economic activity.
On housing, he urged government to partner private developers in genuine public-private housing initiatives that are affordable, sustainable, and well-located.
“Housing is not just shelter; it is dignity, security, and the foundation of every family’s future,” he said.
The Ga Mantse also appealed to traditional authorities to end multiple land sales and disputes that hinder development.
“Land is the inheritance of our ancestors and the future of our children. We must act as custodians, not sellers,” he stated, calling for integrity and transparency in land administration.
Nene Emmanuel Tetteh Martey, the outgoing chairman of the Chamber, reiterated GhCCI commitment to partnering government in delivering sustainable infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and social transformation.
He noted that the success of the Big Push Agenda depended on structured collaboration between government and the private sector throughout the project cycle.
“Infrastructure is not merely about concrete and steel; it is about connecting people, unlocking productivity, and securing the future of our nation,” he said.
Nene Martey, however, raised concerns over persistent delays in payments for executed works, describing them as a critical challenge affecting contractors and consultants.
“Public payment is not a favour; it is a contractual and economic necessity,” he stressed, calling for clear payment schedules, improved monetary discipline, and innovative guarantees to protect private sector interests.
The awards celebrated contractors, engineers, architects, artisans and other professionals whose work continues to shape Ghana’s infrastructure landscape and contribute to national development.
Nene Martey, the first Chairman of GhCCI, Mr Alban Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, Omanhene, Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area & President, National House Of Chiefs, and Rockson CKSON Kwesi Dogbegah, Executive Chairman, Berock Group of Companies were among the award winners.
The overall Best Construction Company of the year 2024/2025 award went to JUSTMOH Construction Limited while General Contractor Company Limited was adjudged the International Construction Company of the year.
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