President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Roads and Highways to provide a detailed response to allegations surrounding contract awards under the government’s Big Push infrastructure programme.
The directive follows an investigative exposé by The Fourth Estate, which raised concerns about procurement processes, particularly the use of sole sourcing in awarding contracts.
Speaking during a Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations at Jubilee House on Monday, March 30, 2026, President Mahama acknowledged that while sole sourcing is permitted under Ghana’s procurement laws in specific circumstances, it should not be the preferred method.
“Open, transparent tendering remains the best way to ensure competitive pricing and value for money,” he stressed.
The President disclosed that his office has requested the full report from The Fourth Estate to conduct a thorough review of the issues raised.
He added that the Roads and Highways Ministry has been tasked to respond comprehensively to the allegations to guide government’s next steps.
President Mahama also indicated that the situation reinforces the need for reforms in the procurement system.
He revealed plans to amend the Public Procurement Act to limit the use of sole sourcing and promote greater transparency in public spending.
As part of the reforms, the President has directed the Ministry of Finance to fast-track the establishment of an independent Value for Money Office, which will scrutinise all single-source procurements.
Mr. Mahama maintained that sole sourcing must be used sparingly and assured that government will engage civil society organisations in shaping the proposed legislative changes.
The move, he said, is aimed at strengthening accountability and ensuring that public funds are used efficiently in the execution of major infrastructure projects.
