President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Ministry of Finance to release GH¢1 billion to pay contractors who have been owed by the state since 2017, with the disbursement expected to be completed before Christmas.

The President made the announcement on Sunday, December 21, at the sod-cutting ceremony for the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project in the Bono Region, which is being executed under the Big Push infrastructure initiative.

“I have directed the Finance Minister, Dr Ato Forson, to release GH¢1 billion to settle debts owed to contractors since 2017 before Christmas. All the contractors will be paid, and the deceased families should follow up to receive the money,” he said.

President Mahama noted that the government is currently undertaking audits to verify outstanding claims, adding that attention is being given to certified works carried out in previous years, particularly under the former administration.

He urged contractors to act swiftly in submitting the necessary documentation to facilitate payment.

“I want to urge contractors to hurry up with their certificates to receive your money. Your money will only be delayed if you are lazy,” the President stated.

He further assured contractors that resources have been set aside under the Big Push programme to support the resumption and completion of stalled infrastructure projects across the country.

Also speaking at the event, the Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II, welcomed the road project and appealed for strict supervision to ensure quality workmanship.

“I’m pleading with contractors to desist from shoddy work,” he cautioned.

President Mahama described the Sunyani–Atronie–Acherensua Road Project as a significant boost for development in the Bono Region and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to clear long-standing arrears owed to contractors while reviving abandoned projects nationwide.