Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has called on the government to expedite the completion of the Boankra Inland Port project. He emphasized that continued delays risk squandering public funds and undermining investor confidence in Ghana's infrastructure development.
During a visit by a Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) delegation, led by Board Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, Otumfuo expressed dissatisfaction with the project's slow pace. He urged the Shippers Authority and GPHA to approach the terminal with renewed urgency. The Asantehene warned that abandoning the project now would represent a significant waste of taxpayer money.
This project is critical for Ghana's trade and logistics strategy. It aims to ease congestion at Tema Harbour and improve goods transport efficiency to northern Ghana and landlocked neighboring countries. The Boankra facility is part of a broader national effort to boost economic activity and create jobs outside of coastal regions. Data shows that efficient logistics infrastructure can reduce business costs significantly, impacting inflation and competitiveness.
Otumfuo stressed that investment confidence depends on visible progress and steady construction. He cautioned that without consistent funding, potential partners would hesitate to inject fresh capital. This insight highlights Ghana's broader challenge in attracting sustained foreign direct investment into large-scale infrastructure.
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, GPHA Board Chairman, responded to Otumfuo's concerns. He assured the Asantehene that the GPHA board is actively managing the project and has observed recent improvements in construction. Nketiah explained that the execution strategy has been adjusted to focus on core infrastructure, aiming to make the port operational sooner.
The GPHA chairman indicated that while a railway link is vital, its high funding requirements could delay the entire project if pursued immediately. Consequently, cargo will initially move by road once the main terminal facilities are finished. The government will continue to seek specific investments for the rail component. This phased approach aims to balance immediate operational needs with long-term infrastructure goals, a common strategy in large capital projects facing funding constraints.
The Boankra Integrated Logistics Terminal, strategically located near Kumasi, is envisioned as a central dry port. Its success could transform trade flows across West Africa, benefiting Ghana’s economy. The project's completion is expected to create numerous jobs for young people. It will also attract both local and foreign direct investment into the Ashanti region. Sustained momentum and consistent funding, as called for by Otumfuo, are crucial for the project to realize its full economic promise. Decision-makers will closely watch the project's progress, as it reflects Ghana's commitment to vital infrastructure development.