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About $230 million has been paid to the contractor who built the multi-million dollar Bank of Ghana offices in Ridge, Accra, according to Central Bank Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama.
Dr. Asiama said the state had almost $32 million remaining to pay for the high-rise building complex in full while speaking on the floor of Parliament for the first time since he was appointed head of the nation’s central bank.
“Mr. Speaker, as of February this year, a total of $230 million approximately has been paid towards the project with an outstanding of $31.8 million to be paid to the contractor,” he disclosed.
Originally projected to cost the state $81.8 million, he added, the project’s final cost came to $261.8 million.
He informed MPs that in addition to the building contract, contracts had been given out for furnishings and security systems, among other items.
“Mr. Speaker, beyond the core building, separate contracts were awarded for other infrastructure This include ICT systems and network infrastructure which was awarded at a cost of $8.6 million. Integrated electronic security systems, which was also awarded $15.8 million and furniture and furnishing which was also awarded at a cost of $11.1 million.
“These elements were included to ensure operates in a secure and technologically advanced environment in line with the needs of a modern Central Bank,” he explained.
Last year, President Akufo-Addo and his vice president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, officially opened the Bank of Ghana building. At the time, the bank was led by Dr. Ernest Addison.
Known as The Bank Square, it consists of a 22-story structure with offices, conference spaces, and a banking hall. Additionally, it features a nine-story building with lecture halls, computer labs, cafeterias, and offices.
Disagreements did arise during Dr. Asiama’s presence before the House. The Minority side, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, opposed his summons, arguing that it established a poor precedent, while the Majority caucus supported it.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
