Parliamentary Committee Urges Transparency on BILT Contract Updates

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Roads and Transport has called the Ministry of Transport to clarify the revised contractual arrangements for the Boankra Integrated Logistics Terminal Project (BILT).

During a recent fact-finding mission to Boankra in the Ashanti Region’s Ejisu municipality, Committee Chairman Kennedy Osei Nyarko reiterated the importance of parliamentary oversight. He emphasized that transparency and record-keeping in the revised contractual arrangements for the BILT project are crucial. This emphasis should reassure the public and relevant authorities of the committee’s commitment to ensuring accountability and good governance.

“While parliamentary approval may not be required for this project’s internal financial arrangements, it remains essential for the Ministry of Transport to keep Parliament informed,” Chairman Osei Nyarko remarked. He noted that the project’s recent funding shifts from external to internal sources were due to [specific reasons], which have [specific implications]. This transparency in financial matters is crucial for maintaining the public’s trust and ensuring effective parliamentary oversight.

The BILT project, managed by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) with support from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) and the Ministry of Transport, aims to develop a 160-hectare facility to facilitate trade with northern Ghana and Sahelian countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This facility, once completed, will significantly reduce the cost and time of transporting goods to and from these regions, thereby boosting trade and economic growth. Construction is underway for 12.2 kilometres of internal roads, with substantial progress in hydrological infrastructure.

The committee has also requested comprehensive documentation regarding the termination of former concessionaire Ashanti Port Services, citing the need for clarity on the circumstances leading to the contract’s dissolution.

With 40% of the project completed and a projected cost of $308 million, the committee emphasized the urgency of ensuring prompt payments to contractors, underscoring the importance of meeting financial obligations to maintain project momentum.

Following the withdrawal of Ashanti Port Services due to financial constraints, Justmoh Construction has taken over the project under the guidance of Project Director Dr. John Bernard Koranteng-Yorke.

Phase 1, which includes civil works, roads, drainage systems, container handling facilities, and freight terminals, is progressing as planned. Upon completion, this phase is expected to bring about significant efficiency gains in transport and logistics.

These gains will not only benefit the project but also the region’s transportation sector as a whole.

Efforts are underway to finalize Justmoh Construction’s contract regularization process through approvals from the Public Procurement Agency and Ministry of Finance, facilitated by the Ministry of Transport. Justice Amoh, CEO of Justmoh Construction, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to meeting project timelines.

He stressed the national significance and the substantial economic benefits that are expected upon completion, which should inspire confidence and support among the public and relevant authorities.

Integrating Eastern and Western rail lines will further optimize operational efficiencies at the Boankra Integrated Logistics Terminal, enhancing its role as a pivotal regional trade hub.

Source:newsghana.com.gh