For decades, Ghana’s rural roads have been a source of frustration for farmers, traders, and everyday commuters. From deep potholes that turn into mini lakes during the rainy season to dusty, uneven paths that make travel unbearable, the state of rural roads has remained a major challenge. Despite government promises, many communities still struggle with poor infrastructure, leaving them cut off from essential services.
The reality of rural roads in Ghana
According to a report by the Copenhagen Consensus, Ghana has a total road network of 78,402 kilometers, but only 49% of these roads have been maintained or rehabilitated. The feeder roads, which connect rural communities to major towns, make up 62% of the total road network, yet 65% of them are in poor condition. This means that farmers struggle to transport their goods, schoolchildren walk long distances, and access to healthcare becomes a nightmare for many rural dwellers.
A recent feature article by Modern Ghana highlights how the lack of proper roads has widened the gap between urban and rural communities. While cities like Accra and Kumasi benefit from new highways and improved transport systems, rural areas remain neglected, making it harder for residents to access education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Government’s big push—Will it deliver?
In the 2025 Budget, the government announced a $10 billion infrastructure initiative called the “Big Push”, aimed at improving roads, transport, and rural development. According to Hon. Isaac Adjei Mensah, Chairman of the Roads and Transport Committee of Parliament, this budget is different from previous ones because it focuses on real commitments, not just promises.
The plan includes the construction of 1,888 kilometers of roads over 11 years, with a projected cost of GHS 5.3 billion. The government also uncapped the Road Fund, allowing more money to be used for road maintenance rather than being locked in the Consolidated Fund.
The cost of bad roads
The economic impact of poor rural roads is massive. Farmers in areas like Northern Ghana, Volta, and the Western Region often lose large portions of their harvest because they cannot transport their goods to markets. According to Copenhagen Consensus, improving rural roads could boost Ghana’s economic growth, making it easier for businesses to operate and reducing poverty in rural areas.
Beyond economics, bad roads also affect healthcare. Pregnant women in remote villages sometimes struggle to reach hospitals, leading to avoidable maternal deaths. In emergencies, ambulances cannot navigate the rough terrain, putting lives at risk.
Will Ghana finally fix its Roads?
While the government’s promises sound promising, many Ghanaians remain skeptical. Over the years, similar pledges have been made, yet rural communities continue to suffer. The success of the Big Push initiative will depend on proper execution, transparency, and consistent maintenance.
For now, rural residents can only hope that this time, the potholes will be filled, and the promises will be kept.
