President Akufo-Addo officially launched the 97-kilometer Tema-Mpakadan railway line on November 22, 2024, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s transportation sector.
The commissioning ceremony took place at the Tema Harbour, ushering in the nation’s first standard gauge railway, which was constructed at a cost of $447 million through a credit facility from India-Exim Bank.
During his address at the event, President Akufo-Addo underscored the importance of the railway in addressing long-standing challenges in Ghana’s transportation system.
He described the project as a bold step toward modernizing the country’s infrastructure and promoting economic growth.
The new railway line is part of Ghana’s first multimodal transport system, which integrates rail, road, and inland water transport, connecting Tema Port with Buipe Port via the Volta Lake.
The President noted that this development will reduce the country’s reliance on road transport for long-distance freight and passenger movement, helping to ease several critical challenges, including traffic congestion, road deterioration, and increasing road accidents.
President Akufo-Addo referred to the railway as a “lifeline” for both communities and businesses, explaining that it would lower transportation costs, boost agricultural trade, and improve port operations.
President Akufo-Addo also expressed his gratitude to the Indian government, local chiefs, and community members for their support throughout the project. He urged the communities to take pride in the new railway and to protect it as a valuable national asset.
“By reducing our reliance on road transport, for long-distance freight and passenger movement, this railway line will address several critical challenges that have hindered Ghana’s development.
“It will decongest significantly our roads, alleviating the health burden that has led to severe traffic congestion, the rapid deterioration of road infrastructure, and an alarming increase in road accidents,” the President added.
“The economic and social benefits of this project are far-reaching and transformative. By alleviating the pressure on our road network, we will extend the lifeline of critical routes, including those along the eastern corridor, while simultaneously lowering the cost of transporting bulk goods, agricultural produce, and containers, thereby enhancing business competitiveness. t will offer a reliable and cost-effective transportation alternative for passengers in areas currently underserved by road networks, ensuring greater accessibility and convenience,” he noted.
“The Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line is just one piece of a larger puzzle. Guided by our 2020 revised Railway Master Plan, we’ll continue to expand the reach of Ghana’s railway network to unlock the full potential of our economy.
“This is a vision that will require sustained investment, partnerships, and unwavering national wealth. As I commission this landmark project today, I’m filled with hope for the brighter future that lies ahead for our future. Together, let us continue to build an efficient, interconnected, and prosperous Ghana,” he said.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to the chiefs and people of the communities affected by this project. Your patience, cooperation, and sacrifices have been invaluable. As the ultimate beneficiaries of this infrastructure, I urge you to take pride in it and protect it for generations to come,” he stated.
