Political scientist and senior lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr. Joshua Zaato, has called on the government to make good on its longstanding promise to complete the Wa–Tumu–Chuchuliga Road, one of the key infrastructure projects repeatedly mentioned in national budgets over the years.
Speaking on the AM Show ahead of the presentation of the 2026 Budget Statement in Parliament later today, Dr Zaato said he expects the Finance Minister to allocate funds to finally complete the road project, estimated to cost about GH₵30 billion.
“One of my biggest expectations today is that the Finance Minister will make that money available,” he said. “Almost every Finance Minister—from Kwesi Botchwey to Osafo-Maafo and those after—has mentioned this road in Parliament. We’ve been this close to the river but never drank from it. I hope it ends today.”
He described the road as a vital link connecting communities in the Upper West and Upper East Regions, including Wa, Tumu, and Chuchuliga, stressing that its completion will significantly boost trade, agriculture, and access to social services across northern Ghana.
Dr. Zaato added that successive governments have performed symbolic “sod-cutting” ceremonies for the project, yet the road remains incomplete decades later.
“This is the second time we are cutting sod for that road under President Akufo-Addo. The first was when he was either Vice President or President. We’ve heard promises, but we need to see actual progress this time,” he said.
The Wa–Tumu–Chuchuliga Road forms part of a broader government plan to open up the northern transport corridor and facilitate movement between the Upper West, Upper East, and North East Regions. Residents have long complained about its deplorable state, which affects economic activities and emergency transport.
Dr. Zaato said completing the project would be a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to equitable regional development under the Big Push infrastructure programme.