By Buertey Francis BORYOR
The Minister-designate for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, has pledged to champion gender inclusivity and ensure equitable opportunities for women in the construction sector.
Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament, Mr. Agbodza said he is committed to breaking barriers and empowering women in the sector.
Acknowledging the gender disparity in road construction, he noted: “The proportion of female contractors in the road sector is significantly low, and this must change. We must make a conscious effort to develop the capacity of women and provide them with opportunities to thrive in the industry”.
Mr. Agbodza, a vocal supporter of the Affirmative Action Bill, further reiterated his belief in creating an enabling environment for women.
“I want my daughter to grow up in a society where her potential is not limited by gender. We all have a role to play in ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities,” he added.
His commitment to inclusivity comes at a time when female contractors in the country have raised concerns about being sidelined in the award of major road projects.
Responding to these concerns, Mr. Agbodza assured the committee of his intention to champion the participation of women in road construction. He described women as meticulous and results-driven- qualities he believes will benefit the sector.
He pledged to work with relevant stakeholders to design policies that support female contractors, including capacity-building programmes and fair allocation of contracts.
Infrastructure and inclusivity
Beyond gender issues, Mr. Agbodza addressed several critical topics during his vetting, including sustainable road designs, traffic congestion and climate-resilient infrastructure. He highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to reduce congestion in cities like Accra and Kumasi, emphasising the role of public transport systems such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and light rail networks.
On road maintenance, he noted that better drainage systems and adherence to sustainable design standards are essential to extending the lifespan of roads. He acknowledged that stagnant water due to poor drainage remains a significant cause of road deterioration, and pledged to prioritise these challenges in urban road projects.
Further, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity and reaffirmed his readiness to serve.
