The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has highlighted inadequate funding as a significant challenge hindering the completion of the Boankra Integrated and Logistics Terminal, also known as the Boankra Inland Port. The project, which is currently 65% complete, has been affected by financial constraints, impacting the pace of work. Dr. Amoakohene emphasized the need for a sustainable funding arrangement to ensure the project's completion.
The government, through the Ministry of Finance, is working on a roadmap to bring together relevant stakeholders to mobilize the necessary resources to fund the project. Dr. Amoakohene stressed that the project cannot be abandoned due to its potential to significantly contribute to Ghana's economy, particularly in trade, logistics, and transportation. The Minister made these remarks during an inspection tour of the project site, led by members of the Ashanti Regional Security Council.
The Boankra Integrated and Logistics Terminal is expected to serve as a major inland trade and logistics facility, providing a crucial link between Ghana's middle belt and seaports. The project was initially not government-funded, but developments surrounding its implementation have made government intervention necessary. Dr. Amoakohene expressed satisfaction with the progress of work so far and commended Justmoh Construction Limited, the contractor, for their efforts despite funding constraints.
The Chief Executive Officer of Justmoh Construction Limited, Dr. Justice Amoh, identified funding as the primary challenge affecting the project. He disclosed that the project had not received funding for some time, contributing significantly to the delays. The CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Prof. Ransford Edward Gyampo, expressed optimism that the government would mobilize the necessary resources to support the project's completion.
The first phase of the project is expected to become operational once completed, while work on the second phase will subsequently commence. Dr. Amoakohene assured that the government is prepared to explore ways of supporting the project to ensure that the investment made would not go to waste and that the facility could eventually serve its intended purpose.
The Ashanti Regional Minister and REGSEC members inspected the ongoing works at the project site to assess the progress and identify potential solutions to the challenges facing the project. Dr. Amoakohene commended the contractor for their work and encouraged them to complete the project as scheduled.
The successful completion of the Boankra Inland Port project is expected to have a positive impact on Ghana's economy, particularly in the areas of trade, logistics, and transportation. The government remains committed to mobilizing the necessary funds to ensure the project's completion and to unlocking its potential benefits for the country.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government is seeking to mobilize funds to complete the Boankra Inland Port project, which is 65% complete.
- The project has been delayed due to inadequate funding, affecting the pace of work.
- The completed project is expected to significantly contribute to Ghana's economy, particularly in trade, logistics, and transportation.
