The debate over the reintroduction of road tolls has been rekindled following the suspension of toll operations in 2021. This decision has led to widespread concerns about the negative impact on the maintenance of Ghana's road network.
Ghana’s road network has suffered from neglect and poor maintenance since the cessation of toll collection, which was implemented by the Ministry of Roads and Highways in November 2021. The initial aim was to alleviate traffic congestion at toll booths and facilitate the introduction of the e-levy. Unfortunately, the e-levy has not generated the expected revenue, leading to a renewed call for road tolls.
During the 2022 midyear budget review on July 25, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta announced plans to reintroduce tolls on selected roads through a public-private partnership. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, NPP flagbearer, who suggested that private sector involvement in road construction could be financed through toll collection.
Roads and Highways Minister Francis Asenso-Boakye reiterated this stance during a recent tour of the Accra-Kumasi Highway. He emphasized the importance of tolls for funding road maintenance, stating, "I have never seen any serious country where they don’t toll their road."
The suspension of tolls in 2021 has also had a significant impact on former toll booth workers, many of whom are still awaiting unpaid salaries. William, a former tollbooth worker, expressed the hardships he has faced since losing his job: “Life has become very difficult for me; I can hardly fend for myself and my children. We don’t have any problem with the road toll restoration, but we are asking the government to redeem its promise to pay us our locked-up salaries.”
Edward Duncan, another former toll worker, highlighted the broader consequences of the suspension, stating, “People have died, people have been ejected from their homes. Peoples’ children cannot go to school because they cannot afford school fees. None of us are against any form of modernization of toll collection in the country. However, what we are saying is that whatever form that the toll will come into the country shouldn’t deny Ghanaians the opportunity to work.”
Motorists also have their views, supporting the reintroduction of tolls only if the funds are strictly used for road maintenance and infrastructure projects. They demand transparency and accountability to ensure that the toll revenue directly benefits road improvements.
The state of Ghana’s roads is critical for the nation’s socio-economic development, providing essential connectivity and accessibility. The deteriorating condition of the roads is a major concern for citizens across the country, as it hampers productivity and necessitates urgent action to prevent further disruptions.
Reintroducing road tolls appears to be a necessary step towards ensuring the sustainability and improvement of Ghana’s road infrastructure. It is essential that any new tolling system is transparent, fair, and effectively managed to restore public trust and contribute to the nation’s development.
