President John Dramani Mahama has promised effective distribution and management of oil funds allocated for his proposed $10 billion “Big Push” development project. During a courtesy call by the Public Interest and Accountability Committee, the President provided the assurance.
The Committee members, under the direction of Mr. Constantine K.M. Kudzedzi, its chairman, came to Ghana to discuss issues pertaining to the handling of Ghana’s oil income and to congratulate the President on his recent election victory.
President Mahama presented his administration’s ambitious plan to invest $10 billion in essential infrastructure projects nationwide over the next five years, with $2 billion going toward each project.
These projects will focus on important areas for increasing agricultural output, such as roads, large bridges, infrastructure for education and health, and more. Under the “Big Push,” he clarified, agricultural initiatives will include irrigation plans, the establishment of farmer service centers, and assistance for the growth of agribusiness.
“Minnes royalties and petroleum revenue will be the main sources of funding for this important policy initiative,” the President said.
President Mahama commended PIAC for its crucial role and the Committee’s efforts to oversee and ensure accountability and transparency in the use of Ghana’s petroleum income. He praised PIAC as an admirable example for other nations looking to establish efficient monitoring systems.