President John Dramani Mahama has stressed that the newly launched Big Push infrastructure initiative is reserved for competent and well-resourced contractors, not for inexperienced or small-scale operators.

Addressing the official launch of the programme at Afienya in the Greater Accra region on Tuesday, September 16, the President disclosed that he had been approached by individuals he described as “wheelbarrow contractors” hoping to secure contracts under the scheme.

He, however, made it clear that the Big Push is designed to accelerate large-scale national infrastructure projects and will not be diluted by awarding contracts to those without the necessary capacity.

“There are a few wheelbarrow contractors who have come to me saying, ‘Oh, I hear they are distributing projects under the Big Push. I want one.’ I say, ‘My friend, this is not for wheelbarrow contractors.’ You are my friend, but I won’t give it to you because it is not meant for wheelbarrow contractors,” he stated.

President Mahama further explained that the government has already engaged reputable local and international contractors with proven track records who are currently delivering on key infrastructure projects.

The government has allocated GH¢13.85 billion (US$892.9 million) for the Big Push programme.

There are 42 road projects under the Big Push Programme.

Read Also: Big Push Road Project launched in Afienya – Roads Minister promises completion in 24 months