The debate over reintroducing road tolls in Ghana has resurfaced after the suspension of their collection in 2021. The country’s road network is in severe disrepair, with maintenance efforts hampered since the tolls were discontinued on November 18, 2021. Previously, funds from toll collections were used to maintain these roads.
The initial suspension aimed to reduce traffic congestion at toll booths and align with the anticipated revenue from the e-levy. However, the e-levy has not generated the expected funds, prompting discussions about reinstating road tolls.
During the 2022 midyear budget review on July 25, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta announced that tolls would be reintroduced on selected roads under a public-private partnership. NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on a campaign tour in the Volta Region, supported this proposal, suggesting that private sector involvement in road construction should be funded through tolls.
Roads and Highways Minister Francis Asenso-Boakye echoed this sentiment during an assessment tour of the Accra-Kumasi Highway. “Many countries use toll proceeds to finance road maintenance. We have started engaging stakeholders to ensure the reintroduction of road tolls. I have never seen any serious country where they don’t toll their road,” he stated.
The suspension of toll collection has had significant economic impacts, particularly for those who worked at toll booths. William, a former tollbooth worker, shared his struggles: “Life has become very difficult for me; I can hardly fend for myself and my children. We don’t have any problem with the road toll restoration, but we are asking the government to redeem its promise to pay us our locked-up salaries.”
Edward Duncan, another former worker, highlighted the hardships faced by many since 2021. “People have died, been ejected from their homes, and cannot afford school fees for their children. None of us are against the modernization of toll collection. However, the new system should not deny Ghanaians the opportunity to work,” he said.
Motorists generally support the reintroduction of tolls, provided the funds are used exclusively for road maintenance and infrastructure projects. Many agree that restoring tolls is crucial for the socio-economic development of the country, as the deteriorating road network hinders productivity and connectivity.
The Roads Minister’s call for toll reintroduction underscores the urgent need to address the poor state of Ghana’s roads to prevent further disruption and promote economic growth.
Source : Sankofaonline.com
