The reconstruction of the Accra-Tema Motorway in Ghana is progressing steadily, with 53 per cent of the work completed. The project, which forms part of a 27.7-kilometre corridor, aims to ease congestion, improve road safety, and strengthen connectivity between Accra, Tema, and adjoining communities. The first section of the project, estimated at US$339 million, commenced in August 2024 and is scheduled for completion in August 2027.
The scope of work for the first section includes a 10-lane controlled-access highway, reconstruction of the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange, and new interchanges at Teshie Link, Community 18, and Lashibi. Additionally, the project involves the construction of eight toll plazas and 10 footbridges. The second section of the project involves widening the George Bush Highway to a 12-lane controlled-access highway, with improvements at the Dzorwulu Interchange, two toll plazas, and two footbridges.
The third section of the project will cover the rehabilitation of the six-lane corridor from Neoplan Interchange to Apenkwa, including improvements at the Apenkwa, Achimota, and Neoplan interchanges with three footbridges. The project is being implemented by A.T. Expressway Limited, a subsidiary of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund, with the Ghana Highway Authority serving as the contracting authority.
According to the Chief Resident Engineer, Kwabena Bempong, the project will improve access to Tema Port and industrial centres, enhance regional integration, and provide safer pedestrian crossings. He also mentioned that nearly 900 jobs are being created through consultancy and supporting services, while about 280 pieces of equipment have been dedicated to the construction projects.
The Chief Executive Officer of A.T. Expressway Limited, Louis Harrison, noted that the Accra-Tema Motorway and Extensions Project could serve as a model for delivering major road infrastructure through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), reducing the financial burden on the state. He explained that the 30-year concession agreement with the government will enable ATEL to finance, reconstruct, expand, operate, and maintain the motorway and its extensions in partnership with the Government of Ghana.
The project has received support from various government officials, including President John Dramani Mahama, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, and Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza. A.T. Expressway Limited has also launched a website to provide motorists, residents, journalists, and investors with construction updates, traffic diversions, notices, and project milestones.
The company has assured the public that safety and timely communication will remain priorities, acknowledging the inconvenience construction may cause through traffic diversions and delays. Maripoma Enterprise Limited is the contractor for the first section, while Associated Consultants Limited provides consultancy and construction supervision services, working with the Ghana Highway Authority.
Key points
- The project is expected to ease congestion and improve road safety in Ghana.
- The 27.7-kilometre corridor aims to strengthen connectivity between Accra, Tema, and adjoining communities.
- The project is being implemented through a Public-Private Partnership between A.T. Expressway Limited and the Government of Ghana.
