Ghana inaugurates landmark 97km Tema-Mpakadan railway line

---

Ghana has officially opened the 97km Tema-Mpakadan railway line, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s transport and logistics sector.

This standard gauge railway is the first of its kind in Ghana, linking the industrial hub of Tema to Mpakadan in the Eastern Region.

The project was inaugurated by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who highlighted its transformative potential for trade, logistics, and regional integration. The railway line is a key component of Ghana’s multi-modal transportation system, designed to enhance connectivity between Tema Port and the country’s northern regions.

Boosting Efficiency and Connectivity

The railway line is expected to improve port operations by alleviating road congestion, lowering transportation costs, and increasing efficiency.

It will play a pivotal role in supporting the movement of bulk goods and passengers, with commodities such as fuel, cement, and agricultural products set to benefit from this improved transport infrastructure.

In addition to enhancing domestic trade, the project is strategically positioned to strengthen Ghana’s regional trade dynamics by facilitating connections to neighboring landlocked countries. This initiative forms part of the broader Ghana-Burkina Faso Railway Interconnectivity Project, aimed at linking Tema Port with Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso’s capital.

A Vision for Modern Rail Infrastructure

Speaking at the inauguration, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the role of railways as a cost-effective and sustainable mode of transport. He reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding the country’s railway network, with plans to construct over 4,500km of railway track.

“Railways are globally recognized as the most efficient means of transporting bulk goods and large numbers of people. They are central to reducing the cost of doing business and promoting regional integration,” the president stated.

Project Highlights

The Tema-Mpakadan railway project, which began in 2018, was executed by Afcons Infrastructure with funding from a $447 million credit facility provided by the India Exim Bank. Italy-based Team Engineering supervised the construction, which included the installation of tracks, bridges, stations, and other essential facilities.

This newly completed railway line underscores Ghana’s dedication to modernizing its transport infrastructure.

Beyond reducing logistical bottlenecks, the railway is poised to drive socioeconomic development, facilitating trade and agricultural productivity while enhancing Ghana’s competitiveness in regional and international markets.

The successful completion of the Tema-Mpakadan railway is a step forward in Ghana’s journey toward a robust and integrated transport network, with future phases promising even greater connectivity across West Africa.

Also Read

AirAsia X expands its horizons to Africa with maiden flight to Nairobi

Ethiopian cargo wins best cargo airline-Africa award