The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has announced that the three-tier Suame Interchange project in the Ashanti Region is officially targeted for completion in 2028.

Speaking during a recent site inspection of the interchange, the Kumasi Outer Ring Road, and the Santase-Ahodwo-Asokwa dual carriageway, the Minister provided a comprehensive update on the region's infrastructure progress and the government's financial commitments.

While the full interchange remains a long-term goal, the project contractor revealed that the Suame Post Office overpass section is expected to be finished much sooner, with a completion date set for the end of 2026.

In a move to further ease regional congestion, Minister Agbodza announced that the government has allocated an additional GHS 3 billion for the construction of the Kumasi Outer Ring Road.

He clarified that these funds were not diverted from the Suame project but represent new investment intended to connect Ejisu, Mampong, and Techiman Road, thereby redirecting heavy traffic away from the city center.

Financial stability for these projects appears to be a priority, as the Minister confirmed the settlement of $29.5 million in outstanding arrears to the Suame Interchange contractor. Additionally, $78 million has been paid for overdue certificates regarding the Kasoa-Winneba road. These payments are part of a larger effort by the Ministry of Finance, which has released over GHS 12 billion to cover arrears inherited from the previous administration.

Agbodza emphasised that although the Suame Interchange and the Kasoa-Winneba road were not part of President Mahama’s original "Big Push" initiative, they were integrated into the national agenda due to their essential role in providing citizen relief.

He reaffirmed that roads within Asanteman are a central focus for the President, with further work currently progressing on the Accra-Kumasi Expressway and various roundabouts in Santase, Ahodwo, and Asokwa.

Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene joined the inspection, commending the administration's dedication to the region's road network.

Providing further technical updates, James Osei Brown, CEO of Joshob Construction, noted that the Asokwa to Ahodwo roundabout stretch is roughly 20% complete and is on track to be fully opened by September this year.