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Government proposes a new approach for the construction of Pwalugu Dam, existing contract to be terminated

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By Franklin ASARE-DONKOH

Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has announced plans to terminate the existing contract for the construction of the Pwalugu Dam.

According to the Food and Agriculture Minister, there is an urgent need for a fresh approach to be adopted to ensure the project’s completion.

The Pwalugu multipurpose dam project, initiated by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo- led government in 2019 under a $993 million contract, was designed as a hydro-solar hybrid system with a 60 MW hydropower plant and a 50 MW solar power component.

It was also intended to absorb excess water from the Bagre Dam to curb perennial flooding in northern Ghana and enhance irrigation.

The Pwalugu multipurpose dam project whose initial completion timeline was the end of the year 2024, is yet to see any meaningful signs on the construction site.

The Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA), the agency under whose watch the project is to be undertaken recently revealed that a whopping $12 million has been spent on just mobilisation and site development, without actual construction taking place. 

Mr. Opoku, following a three-day tour of various departments and agencies under his ministry in a media briefing, hinted at the government’s plans to immediately terminate the existing contract entered into by the Nana Addo-led government, and secure a new contractor to carry out the construction.

“We will terminate the Pwalugu contract immediately, secure a new contractor, find funding, and swiftly ensure the project’s execution,” he reiterated.

Addressing concerns about potential judgment debt, the minister assured that due diligence would be observed before taking any action.

“Before proceeding with termination, we will consult the Attorney General’s department for legal advice. However, we are committed to ensuring that the Pwalugu project is executed. I can assure you it will be John Mahama’s signature project in the North,” he added.

The government’s latest decision aims to revive the stalled project with a new strategy, ensuring its timely completion and intended benefits.

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