President John Dramani Mahama said Tuesday that the country’s newly launched “Big Push” infrastructure initiative will be reserved exclusively for qualified contractors, shutting out what he called “wheelbarrow contractors” — small-scale operators seeking access to large-scale public works projects.

Speaking at the official launch of the multi-billion-cedi program in Afienya, near Accra, Mr. Mahama said that while he had received overtures from individuals hoping to secure contracts under the initiative, only firms with a track record of delivering major infrastructure projects would be considered.

“There are a few wheelbarrow contractors who have come to me saying, ‘Oh, I hear they are distributing projects under the Big Push. I want one,’” Mr. Mahama said. “I say, ‘My friend, this is not for wheelbarrow contractors.’ You are my friend, but I won’t give it to you because it is not meant for wheelbarrow contractors.”

The Big Push is a flagship infrastructure drive aimed at accelerating national development through the rapid completion of key roads, bridges, schools, and health facilities. The program is designed to inject capital into Ghana’s infrastructure ecosystem and stimulate economic growth.

According to Mr. Mahama, the government has selected a mix of experienced domestic and international contractors—some already engaged in ongoing projects—who will be responsible for implementation. He noted that several of the projects had been initiated under previous administrations but have since been repackaged under the Big Push to ensure timely delivery.

The president emphasized that the program’s scale and strategic importance require capable firms with the financial and technical capacity to deliver, adding that political considerations would not influence contract awards.

The Big Push forms a central pillar of Mr. Mahama’s economic agenda as his administration seeks to bolster public infrastructure and attract long-term investment in Ghana’s development.