The Joint Association of Port Transport Unions (JAPTU) Ghana has applauded the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, for his exemplary leadership and decisive interventions in addressing critical issues in the road sector.

The group noted that the resumption of construction works on the Pokuase–Nsawam road and the introduction of bold axle load reforms will help safeguard Ghana's road network.

The association indicated that for years, commuters, truck drivers, and businesses have endured frustration, delays, and high operational costs associated with the deplorable state of the Pokuase–Nsawam stretch of the Accra–Kumasi highway.

They stated that the strategic corridor serves not only as a vital link between the capital and the middle and northern belts of Ghana but also serves as a major transit route for regional trade within the ECOWAS sub-region.

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The Executive Secretary of JAPTU Ghana, Ibrahim Musah, applauded Agbodza for taking decisive action to fix the poor road network, especially the Pokuase-Nsawam area.

“The decision by the minister to bring the contractor back on site marks a turning point, signaling the government's strong commitment to improving mobility, reducing road-user fatigue, and enhancing trade facilitation. JAPTU Ghana acknowledges this as a highly responsive and people-centered intervention that will ease the burden on drivers, traders, and the traveling public,” he said.

The group commended the Bold Axle Load Reforms spearheaded by the minister.

The secretary further stated that “transporters must not see these reforms as punitive but rather corrective, aimed at ensuring fairness, prolonging the durability of our roads, and improving safety for all road users.”

Over the years, Ghana's road infrastructure has suffered extensive damage due to excessive axle overloading, which not only shortens the lifespan of roads but also escalates the national maintenance bill.

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By introducing a more rigorous, transparent, and enforceable Axle Load regime further demonstrates foresight and firmness in protecting public investments in road infrastructure.

He called upon the roads minister to expand his stakeholder engagements to ensure that he carries all stakeholders along in his vision.

JAPTU Ghana, representing the interests of transport operators across the country, has shown full support for the minister's reform agenda, as it aligns with their shared vision of building a sustainable, efficient, and safe transport sector.

The association reiterated its readiness to partner with the Ministry of Roads and Highways and other relevant state institutions in ensuring the success of these initiatives.

The group believes that by working collaboratively, they can secure Ghana's road network for the future, reduce the cost of doing business, and position the country as a competitive transport and logistics hub within West Africa.

JAPTU Ghana commended the minister for his proactive leadership, people-first vision, and commitment to lasting solutions in Ghana's road sector.

The decision to fix the Pokuase-Nsawam road gives renewed hope to road users, transport operators, and businesses about the government's commitment to reset Ghana.

SB/VPO

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