The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has stressed the urgent need to complete the Boankra Integrated Logistics Terminal. He stated that finishing the project will create thousands of jobs for Ghana's youth. The terminal is designed to bring cargo handling services closer to central and northern Ghana. Direct employment will come from the terminal itself.
Thousands more jobs will emerge along the industry's value chain. This includes services related to container handling and logistics. The Asantehene highlighted that the project benefits the entire northern sector, not just the Ashanti Region. Persons in the Greater Kumasi area will also see economic gains. This is a critical step for economic development.
The Boankra Inland Port project has been in development for over 19 years. It has faced numerous missed completion deadlines. This long delay has cost the nation. The Chief Executive of Ghana Shippers Authority, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, also noted the project's potential. Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority has invested significantly. The Ghana Shippers Authority is also a joint financier.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed worry over funding gaps. "We have invested a lot of money in BILT," he said. "If we don’t find investment to complete it, then we have caused financial loss to the government." He stressed that securing new investors depends on visible progress. Without consistent funding, it is hard to attract capital.
Progress on the ground shows mixed results. The terminal area is 98 percent complete. The freight station and bonded warehouse are at advanced stages. However, other crucial components are stalled. The interchange and fire station have seen limited progress. Consultants report only six percent completion overall. This is far below the projected 20 percent for April 2026. Financial constraints are the main reason for these delays.
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, Board Chairman of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, assured efforts to find investors. He said that investment so far has been judiciously spent. Much of the cost went into ground preparation. He indicated the project can operate without immediate railway lines. Road transport can be used first to attract investors for the railway. The railway is a very expensive component. Completing the terminal is vital for national development and revenue generation.