President Mahama Orders Recovery of Misappropriated Funds from Pwalugu Dam Project

President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Attorney General to retrieve all misappropriated funds related to the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam project, which was launched under the Akufo-Addo administration.

Expressing deep concern over the disbursement of $12 million to a contractor despite little to no progress on the project since its commencement in November 2019, President Mahama condemned the situation as unacceptable.

As part of his broader anti-corruption initiative, Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), the President is committed to reclaiming lost public funds and holding those responsible accountable.

Describing the abandoned site as a “crime scene,” he assured the public that culprits would face justice. Speaking to chiefs and residents of the Upper East Region, he reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to reviving stalled projects, emphasizing that the Pwalugu Dam was intended to boost agriculture and economic growth—not serve as a means for financial misconduct.

In 2024, the Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA) justified the $11.9 million payment to the contractor, stating it was meant for mobilization rather than completed work. However, President Mahama remains skeptical and has insisted on retrieving the funds.

Additionally, he has instructed the Finance Minister to take the necessary steps to restart the project, ensuring its intended benefits are realized.