Asenso Boakye Cites Funding, COVID-19 For Delays in Ashanti Region Projects
Hon. Francis Asenso Boakye, Member of Parliament for Bantama, has attributed delays in major development projects in Kumasi and the Ashanti Region under NPP government to funding challenges and the impact of COVID-19.
Speaking on Nkwantannanso on Opemsuo Radio, Hon. Asenso Boakye said projects such as the Krofrom Market faced obstacles due to financial constraints.
“Projects such as the Krofrom Market faced challenges; while I do not have all the details, funding issues played a role,” he said.
He also highlighted delays in the Suame Interchange, noting the role of both the pandemic and the debt exchange programme in slowing progress.
“The Suame Interchange also experienced delays due to COVID-19 and the debt exchange programme, which affected the original funding. However, before we left office, work was actively ongoing, and my understanding is that contractors are still on site,” he added.
The MP emphasized the strategic importance of the Ashanti Region, stressing that it deserves special attention from government.
“The Ashanti Region deserves special attention, not only because it is a stronghold of the party [NPP] but also because it is strategically central to Ghana’s development. Geographically, it sits at the heart of the country, making it critical to transportation and national connectivity,” Hon. Asenso Boakye noted.
He also reflected on how unforeseen events can shift government priorities, drawing a parallel with the leadership challenges faced by former U.S. President George W. Bush after the 9/11 attacks.
“Initially, I did not admire his [President George W. Bush ] leadership, but after reading his book Decision Points, it became clear that the 9/11 attacks changed everything for America and forced a complete shift in governance direction. Similarly, COVID-19 changed everything for governments worldwide,” he said.
Hon. Asenso Boakye further underscored limitations his ministry faced because of Covid.
“During my tenure as Minister for Works and Housing, we did not receive adequate funding to fully finance our projects,” he said.
