Mahama Administration Advances 'Big Push' Infrastructure Agenda Amid Petitions and Digital Expansion

The Ghanaian government has intensified its multi-billion dollar infrastructure and digital transformation agenda, headlined by the 'Big Push' initiative and major transportation projects across the Ashanti and Western regions. A high-level government delegation recently briefed His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on significant developments, including the 198.7-kilometre Accra-Kumasi Expressway and the Suame Interchange. This comes as the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC) calls for greater transparency regarding the $434.55 million in Annual Budget Funding Amount (ABFA) currently earmarked for the expressway. Simultaneously, Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has highlighted the transformative potential of the Petroleum Hub project, which has already acquired over 12,000 acres to stimulate industrial growth and job creation in the region.

In the digital and revenue sector, Minister for Communication and Digital Innovation Samuel Nartey George announced the nationwide rollout of the 'One Million Coders' programme starting May 1, 2026. The initiative, which received 94,000 applications during its pilot, aims to position 100,000 graduates in remote work roles. However, the government's digital drive faces scrutiny as former MP Joseph Cudjoe has called for the urgent cancellation of the Publican AI Customs contract with Truedare Investments Limited, citing concerns over a high-cost revenue-sharing model that could reach GH•3.95 billion annually. In contrast, the KGL Group has expressed support for President John Dramani Mahama's directive to renegotiate its agreement with the National Lottery Authority (NLA) to ensure better financial terms for the state.

The Presidency is also navigating a series of high-profile petitions and regulatory challenges. Traditional priests and priestesses of the GaDangbe State recently marched to Jubilee House to petition against the license revocation of McDan Aviation at Kotoka International Airport, warning of the impact on indigenous investment. Simultaneously, the Ghana Auctioneers Association has appealed for an investigation into unauthorized interference in public auctions involving alleged fake letters from government offices. In the aquaculture sector, Minister Emelia Arthur has demonstrated a firm stance on compliance, sanctioning Fujian Farms with a GH•240,000 fine for environmental and sanitary breaches.

These developments reflect a broader national effort to balance rapid infrastructure expansion with regulatory oversight and public accountability. From local bypass projects in Kasoa to street lighting initiatives in Old Tafo, the government is focusing on immediate community needs alongside large-scale investments. As the 'Big Push' continues to draw interest—including a public appeal from gospel musician Diana Asamoah for contract considerations—the administration faces the dual challenge of maintaining investor confidence while ensuring that the legal and financial frameworks governing these massive projects remain transparent and beneficial to the Ghanaian public.