Dr Theophilus Acheampong, technical advisor to Ghana’s Finance Minister, has firmly rejected assertions that the government is withdrawing from public-private partnerships (PPPs). Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Friday, November 13, he clarified that the administration’s decision to utilize public funds for certain large-scale infrastructure projects is a tactical choice designed to accelerate delivery timelines rather than a departure from private sector collaboration.
According to MyJoyOnline, Acheampong explained that relying solely on the traditional PPP framework for major developments could result in significant delays. He cited the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway as a primary example, noting that the conventional process—from initial structuring to financial closure—typically spans seven to ten years. To avoid such lengthy procedures, the government intends to deploy dedicated public resources to initiate and complete these critical projects more rapidly.
The advisor emphasized that this approach does not preclude future private involvement. Once construction is finished, the state could sell portions of its equity or shares to private investors. This mechanism would allow the government to recoup some of its initial investment, with the proceeds then directed toward other development initiatives and public investments. Acheampong stated that this method achieves two key objectives: speeding up infrastructure completion and creating opportunities for private sector participation later in the project lifecycle.
During the discussion, Acheampong addressed concerns raised by Professor Godfred Bokpin, an economist who urged the government to finance commercially viable infrastructure through PPPs. Bokpin argued that this approach would preserve limited public resources for essential services such as schools and hospitals. Acheampong acknowledged the importance of ensuring infrastructure investment delivers wider economic benefits and spatial development across regions. However, he maintained that the current strategy of using public resources initially is better suited to Ghana’s specific circumstances.
He noted that while he understands the argument for opening up the country through improved transport links, the net benefit of the proposed financing arrangement is more practical. Acheampong argued that driving projects with public funds first, and then opening them to private partners, offers a more viable path forward. He insisted that the government remains committed to PPPs as a means of providing public goods, but the immediate priority is to overcome bureaucratic hurdles that stall progress.