The government of Ghana has opened the bidding process for the construction of the proposed Volivo Bridge over the River Volta. This development marks a significant step towards advancing the long-delayed project. The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, announced that actual construction work is expected to begin in 2027. The project aims to link Volivo and Dofor Adidome, enhancing trade and travel along the Eastern Corridor.
The Volivo Bridge project was initially expected to commence after Ghana signed a ¥11.239 billion (about US$100 million) loan agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on December 8, 2016. However, the project has faced delays due to procurement and project preparation issues. Despite an earlier bidding process conducted around the time of the financing agreement, progress has been slow. Renewed cooperation between Ghana, JICA, and project consultants has helped accelerate the necessary processes.
Minister Agbodza expressed optimism about the project's progress, describing the bridge as an important symbol of the cordial relationship between Ghana and Japan. He emphasized the need for the selected contractor to work efficiently to ensure the timely delivery of the project. The government has assured that it will provide the necessary support for the project's success. The bridge is expected to ease congestion on the Adomi Bridge and improve overall transportation infrastructure.
The Volivo Bridge is designed as a 540-metre cable-stayed bridge across the Volta River, featuring a main span of about 280 metres supported by twin towers rising approximately 51 metres above the river. When completed, it will be one of Ghana's most significant planned transport infrastructure projects. The project's long delay has been attributed to various factors, including procurement issues and project preparation.
Minister Agbodza acknowledged that the project had taken longer than expected, citing cooperation with Ghana's Japanese counterparts and consultants as key factors in achieving the latest milestone. He expressed hope that the construction of the bridge would demonstrate the strength of the partnership between Ghana and Japan. The bidding process, which opened on November 5, marks a crucial step towards the project's realization.
The Volivo Bridge project is expected to have a significant impact on trade and travel along the Eastern Corridor. By linking Volivo and Dofor Adidome, the bridge will provide an alternative route, reducing congestion on the Adomi Bridge. The project's completion is anticipated to boost economic activity and improve the overall transportation network in the region.
The government has urged the selected contractor to work around the clock to ensure the project's timely completion. With construction expected to begin in 2027, the project is poised to be a major infrastructure development in Ghana. The successful completion of the Volivo Bridge will not only enhance transportation but also serve as a testament to the effective partnership between Ghana and Japan.
Key points
- The Volivo Bridge project is expected to start construction in 2027.
- The project aims to improve trade and travel along the Eastern Corridor.
- The bridge is designed as a 540-metre cable-stayed bridge across the Volta River.
