Ghana secured $500 million from the World Bank for its Market Access and Connectivity Project (GMACP). This funding aims to improve rural road access and strengthen agricultural value chains across the country. The project will expand economic opportunities and create short-term direct jobs for rural communities.
Poor road conditions and inadequate maintenance have historically constrained rural livelihoods in Ghana. These issues limit market access, increase transport costs, and cause significant post-harvest losses. The GMACP will address these challenges by rehabilitating and maintaining critical feeder roads in selected regions, ensuring year-round connectivity.
This initiative fits into Ghana’s broader strategy to boost food security and rural economic development. Connecting farmers to markets helps reduce food prices and strengthens the agricultural sector. The project targets major crop-producing regions, which are vital for Ghana's food supply.
Robert Taliercio, World Bank Division Director for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, stated the project will improve market access and opportunities for rural communities. He emphasized its role in strengthening Ghana’s agricultural competitiveness and resilience. The initiative will directly benefit over 550,000 people, including 350,000 farmers and 250,000 women.
The GMACP will generate more than 5,000 direct jobs and over 25,000 indirect jobs. These jobs will emerge from civil works and road maintenance activities. The Ministry of Roads and Highways will implement the project, rehabilitating over 1,000 kilometers of rural roads.
These road improvements will span nine regions: Upper West, Northern, Savannah, Oti, Volta, Eastern, Ashanti, Bono, and Western. These areas are key producers of maize, rice, yam, and cassava, critical for national food security. Enhanced all-season access will reduce transport costs, shorten travel times, and increase supply reliability.
The project also incorporates climate-resilient designs for roads and drainage systems. This ensures infrastructure can withstand long-term climate risks. Sustainability is a key pillar, with plans to operationalize the Road Maintenance Trust Fund (RMTF).
Performance-based contracts for road maintenance will be introduced to ensure longevity. Technical assistance will also strengthen institutional capacity, ensuring rehabilitated roads remain functional after the project concludes. This long-term approach will support sustained economic growth in rural areas.
The improved connectivity will enable farmers to reach buyers more efficiently. This will allow them to transition to higher-value agricultural activities. Unlocking job and income opportunities along agricultural value chains will significantly boost rural incomes. The project represents a substantial investment in Ghana's rural economy and infrastructure.