The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) have reinforced their collaboration on the second phase of the Ghana Urban Mobility and Accessibility Project (GUMAP II).
This renewed commitment aims to improve sustainable transport planning in cities across Ghana. The project targets metropolitan and municipal assemblies, which are local government bodies responsible for urban development. Discussions during a SECO delegation's visit to the NDPC on May 11, 2026, focused on these improvements.
This initiative is crucial for Ghana's economic development, particularly as urbanisation accelerates. Effective public transport systems reduce traffic congestion and boost economic productivity by facilitating easier movement of goods and people. Previous attempts to establish transport departments within local assemblies faced staffing difficulties, hindering their effectiveness. GUMAP II seeks to overcome these past challenges and build more resilient transport infrastructure.
Audrey Smock Amoah, the Director-General of the NDPC, confirmed the Commission's strong support for GUMAP II. She highlighted the need for practical planning tools and better coordination among stakeholders. Dr Amoah also stressed the importance of carefully selecting participating districts to prevent unintended negative effects. She noted the past struggles with staffing in local transport departments but emphasised rebuilding these structures for the project's success. Plans to work with the Office of the Head of Local Government Service will help identify staffing gaps. This collaboration will strengthen transport departments within the assemblies themselves.
The successful implementation of GUMAP II will likely lead to more efficient urban environments. This will attract further investment and improve the quality of life for urban residents. Decision-makers will closely monitor the project's progress in developing robust local transport departments. The initiative is critical for Ghana's long-term urban sustainability and economic growth, especially in rapidly expanding urban centres. Integrating mobility plans into broader local development strategies, with Regional Coordinating Councils as key partners, will be essential for success.