The Ghanaian government has announced plans to undertake a major renovation of principal streets in Accra, ahead of the nation's 70th Independence anniversary in March 2027. Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, revealed that President John Dramani Mahama has directed the ministry to ensure that major roads in the capital are resealed as part of efforts to give the city a new look. This move aims to make Accra a pleasant place for residents and visitors.
During a courtesy call on Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, at his palace in Accra, Minister Agbodza stated that the task of renovating the roads has been entrusted to Oswald Investment Limited. The company's personnel have already begun working on sections of the capital's roads, particularly at night, to minimize disruption to traffic. The visit was part of efforts to deepen collaboration between the ministry and traditional authorities on road development and other infrastructure projects in the capital.
Minister Agbodza was accompanied by his deputy, Alhassan Suhuyini; the Chief Director of the ministry, Samuel Kwasi Akuaku; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Highway Authority, Mallam Issah Ishak. The minister expressed his appreciation to the Ga Mantse for embracing government policies, especially issues relating to sanitation. He noted that this level of leadership would help bring the city to the expected standard.
Minister Agbodza also discussed the challenges faced by the ministry, including stalled road projects that were suspended prior to President Mahama's swearing-in. Some of the critical projects mentioned included the Ofankor-Nsawam highway, the Kasoa, Ashaiman to Akosombo, and Tema Motorway to Prampram. These projects were stalled due to financing issues, including the collapse of the government's financing relationship with Chinese partners.
However, Minister Agbodza expressed optimism that some of these projects are now back on track. He mentioned that the project from Independence Square, along the beach road through to Nungua to Tema, is being worked on with the help of Oswald Investment Limited. The minister assured that the government is determined to complete these projects shortly.
The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, expressed appreciation for the initiative and urged the minister to include areas within Ga Mashie in the renovation plans. He noted that the road network within Ga Mashie has become problematic due to congestion and prolonged deterioration, making movement difficult. The Ga Mantse described the living conditions in Ga Mashie as "like living in a rural setting in an urban city".
Key projects to be completed include the renovation of major roads in Accra and the completion of stalled projects such as the Ofankor-Nsawam highway and the Tema Motorway to Prampram. The government's efforts aim to improve the city's infrastructure and sanitation. The collaboration between the ministry and traditional authorities is expected to contribute to the development of Accra.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government has announced plans to renovate Accra's principal streets ahead of the 70th Independence anniversary in 2027.
- The renovation of Accra's roads has been entrusted to Oswald Investment Limited.
- The government aims to complete stalled road projects, including the Ofankor-Nsawam highway and the Tema Motorway to Prampram.
