Otumfuo backs Accra–Kumasi expressway plan as land clearing begins
The John Mahama administration has secured the backing of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for the planned Accra–Kumasi Expressway, as authorities begin preparatory works on the major infrastructure project. A delegation led by Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza visited the Manhyia Palace to seek the support of the....
The John Mahama administration has secured the backing of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for the planned Accra–Kumasi Expressway, as authorities begin preparatory works on the major infrastructure project.
A delegation led by Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza visited the Manhyia Palace to seek the support of the Asantehene, whose influence is key in land-related matters in the Ashanti Region.
The project, a 198-kilometre expressway linking Accra and Kumasi, is being spearheaded by the government under President John Dramani Mahama as part of efforts to improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
Officials say the Ghana Armed Forces has begun clearing the right of way along the Ablekuma–Oda–Sewia corridor, with the exercise expected to be completed within 20 weeks after starting in March 2025.
Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Yaw Genfi described the initiative as “a major step in strengthening connectivity, boosting trade, and advancing national development.”
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in response, assured the delegation of his full support and urged officials to remain focused on delivering the project despite public criticism.
The Accra–Kumasi corridor is one of Ghana’s busiest transport routes, linking the southern part of the country to the middle and northern belts and facilitating trade across the sub-region.
The expressway is expected to reduce travel time, improve road safety and lower transport costs, while opening up new areas for commercial and industrial development.
Construction is projected to take about three years, with completion targeted between 2028 and 2029.
“We are going to tender, and I have the engineers’ estimate, so you don’t want to mention it for someone to know. It’s going to go through tender and all,” Finance Minister, Casiel Ato Forson had said in an interview.
He added that consultants had completed comprehensive designs, including detailed costing, and the project will be opened for competitive tender very soon.
“Three years. We plan to commission it in 2028,” he confirmed.