Construction project delays cripple Ghana’s economic development, resulting in cost overruns, abandoned projects, and damaging disputes. This study tackles the root causes of these pervasive delays, offering a practical framework for effective management and mitigation the delays. The research employed a four-stage approach: a comprehensive literature review on construction delay factors; a detailed case study of an active Mining project in northern Ghana; a root cause analysis using the Ishikawa tool; and the development of a novel theoretical framework. While poor execution strategies, labour shortages, and delayed material delivery initially appeared as key contributors, the analysis revealed these were merely symptoms of deeper, underlying issues. Critically, the use of ineffective tools and equipment were identified, a scarcity of skilled local labour, and the significant impact of holidays and weekends as crucial root causes. This study's framework provides actionable strategies to address these root causes, empowering project managers to improve project outcomes, minimise cost and time overruns, and ultimately contribute to more successful infrastructure development in Ghana.