Manuals to address road design, maintenance issues launched

THE Ministry of Roads and Highways has launched three manuals as a guide to address key design and maintenance issues in the road industry. 

The three documents – road design guide, road maintenance manual and bridge maintenance manual – are an upgrade of existing documents and seek to harmonise new activities in roads and bridges. 

The documents were developed with support from the Japanese government through its corporation agency’s (JICA) technical assistance programme. 

Launch

Launching the three documents, the Minster of Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye, stressed the need for the country to have a customised guide that reflects the realities of the country instead of relying on manuals developed from other jurisdictions. 

The manuals, he said, were vital tools which would guide the country in achieving its vision of a robust and efficient road network.

“These new manuals confirm our commitment and dedication to ensuring that Ghana's infrastructure meets the highest standards and serves the needs of our people,” he said.

The minister further commended the Japanese government for the support, adding: “The collaboration between Ghana and Japan has always been fruitful, and this project is a shining example of what we can achieve together.

“Japan's commitment to assisting us in enhancing our infrastructure demonstrates their continuous support for our development goals,” he added. 

JICA 

The Chief Representative, JICA Ghana Office, Suzuki Momoko, lauded the strong collaboration between the Japanese expert team and the Ghanaian counterpart to develop what she described as a well-structured and interrelated guide for Ghana. 

Describing the manuals as great resources for Ghana, she entreated the government to utilise the resources to their maximum in order to achieve the goals of the project. 

The President of the Ghana Institution of Engineers, Kwabena Bempong, who chaired the launching ceremony, said the manuals would help enhance the standards and practices within the road industry. 

“These design guides are made to ensure uniformity and consistency in how we build and maintain our roads. 

“They are more than just documents but a comprehensive guide that embodies our commitment to excellence, safety and maintenance of our roads,” he added. 

The Chief Director of the sector ministry, Dr Abass Awoli, highlighted the instrumental role played by experts and partners in the development of the manuals, saying: “I am confident that these documents will contribute to the provision of safe, durable roads capable of supporting our nation’s development.”