Former Odododiodoo Member of Parliament, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has been appointed as the National Coordinator for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), a flagship initiative introduced under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration.
The appointment was made by President John Dramani Mahama, despite Vanderpuye’s previous criticisms of Akufo-Addo’s legacy.
Vanderpuye, who once accused President Akufo-Addo of self-praise and lacking substantial achievements, graciously accepted the appointment after failing to secure a ministerial position in the Mahama government.
He has vowed to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Hon. Collins Ntim.
At a brief ceremony on Wednesday, Vanderpuye officially assumed office as DRIP Coordinator, receiving key documents symbolizing his new role. Hon. Ntim guided him through the responsibilities and operational framework of DRIP, which falls under the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation & Rural Development (MLGDRD).
Launched on July 31, 2024, DRIP-2024 was a strategic initiative by the Akufo-Addo-led government aimed at enhancing road infrastructure in local communities across Ghana.
The program equips Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) with the necessary resources and expertise to improve road networks efficiently.
Recognizing the fundamental role of infrastructure in national development, the Akufo-Addo administration prioritized DRIP as a sustainable solution for addressing road maintenance challenges.
Over the past four years, discussions on the program have been a recurring theme in State of the Nation Addresses and budget presentations, underscoring its importance in fostering economic growth.
A key component of DRIP-2024 is the provision of state-of-the-art equipment and specialized training for MMDAs, empowering local authorities to execute road maintenance projects with enhanced efficiency.
The initiative is expected to create approximately 4,480 direct jobs, spanning various roles including operators, mechanics, support staff, and management personnel.
Beyond job creation, DRIP-2024 offers extensive training in mechanical engineering, hydraulic systems, and electronic systems diagnostics.
By equipping individuals with technical skills, the program ensures a workforce capable of maintaining and operating modern road construction equipment.
Improved road infrastructure is set to unlock economic potential by enhancing connectivity between local entrepreneurs and broader markets. Farmers will benefit from better transportation routes, reducing post-harvest losses and facilitating access to urban centers. This ripple effect is expected to bolster agricultural productivity, increase incomes, and enhance food security nationwide.
The success of DRIP-2024 is contingent on strong governance and sustainable implementation. The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation & Rural Development will oversee the project, ensuring transparency, accountability, and community participation in road infrastructure improvements.
By fostering local ownership and responsibility, DRIP-2024 is poised to transform road networks across Ghana, driving economic empowerment and improving the quality of life for citizens.
As the initiative moves forward under Nii Lante Vanderpuye’s leadership, the legacy of DRIP remains a testament to Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development and infrastructural progress.