Roads Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza Proposes Extension of Defect Liability Period to Ensure Infrastructure Durability

The Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has signaled a significant policy shift in Ghana's construction sector by advocating for an extension of the mandatory one-year defect liability period for road contracts. Speaking during a high-profile site inspection of the Accra-Kumasi (N6) highway on September 29, 2025, the Minister emphasized that the existing timeframe is inadequate for safeguarding the nation's substantial investments in road infrastructure. Agbodza argued that extending this period would compel contractors and consultants to prioritize quality and durability, ensuring that the taxpayer receives better value for every cedi spent on public works.

During his assessment of the N6 highway, Minister Agbodza highlighted that many road defects often manifest shortly after the current twelve-month warranty expires, leaving the government to shoulder the costs of premature repairs. To address this, he has initiated discussions with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Works and Housing to reform standard contract terms. The proposed changes aim to create a more robust accountability framework where contractors remain legally and financially responsible for the integrity of their projects for a longer duration. Agbodza expressed firm confidence in the technical expertise of Ghanaian engineers but stressed that professional capability must be matched by a culture of responsibility and long-term performance.

The move comes as part of the broader infrastructure agenda under President John Mahama’s administration, which seeks to modernize the country’s transport network through sustainable engineering practices. By lengthening the defect liability period, the Ministry hopes to discourage sub-standard workmanship and encourage the use of superior materials and techniques from the outset. Industry experts suggest that such a policy change could lead to a significant reduction in maintenance backlogs and provide a more reliable road network for the traveling public. As the Ministry moves toward formalizing these reforms, the construction industry is expected to adjust its operational standards to meet the heightened expectations for national development.