President John Mahama today announced a significant and ambitious initiative to revitalize the Upper East Region through the construction of a new airport, a move he described as a critical step towards economic growth and regional connectivity. His remarks, delivered during a visit to the proposed airport site in Bolgatanga, underscored a strategic vision to alleviate travel burdens and unlock the region’s potential.
He stated that the project, estimated to cost approximately 469.7 million dollars, would effectively eliminate the need for lengthy journeys of 160 kilometers to Tamale, a major artery for domestic flights. Furthermore, the airport is intended to boost local businesses and the mining industry, which currently faces significant logistical constraints.
The President emphasized that this isn’t merely about an airport; it’s a transformative project designed to foster economic activity and attract investment within the Upper East. He indicated that spending hours traveling by road to Accra, or driving to Tamale, represents a considerable constraint to business and investment opportunities in the region. ‘Nobody wants to drive 11 hours to his factory in Upper East and drive 11 hours back to Accra,’ he said, highlighting the practical challenges this would pose.
He further explained that the airport will support gold mining companies, providing a more secure and efficient means of transporting precious metals to Accra. The project’s envisioned facility will boast a 2.2-kilometer runway capable of accommodating both jet and propeller-engine aircraft, incorporating an apron, taxiway, and airfield lighting to ensure safe nighttime operations. The terminal building will be integrated with an air traffic control tower, and a Rescue and Fire Fighting Services facility will be constructed.
James Agalca, the Board Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited, provided detailed specifications. The airport is slated to handle approximately 100,000 passengers annually, with a terminal designed to accommodate future expansion. As of today, physical progress stands at 28% completion, a modest shortfall from the planned 29%.
The project’s contract was initially valued at GH¢469.7 million, covering 24.23 kilometers of road and an additional 10.18 kilometers. Myturn Limited, with work commencing in January 2026 and scheduled for completion in January 2028, is responsible for the sod-cutting, a process that had been stalled since his administration left office.
President Mahama recalled the sod-cutting in 2016, but subsequent work stalled after his administration’s departure. The Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, explained that payment challenges had previously slowed work on the road. He stated that as of the previous month, the government had paid a total of GH¢23.1 billion, including payments to Big Push contractors and the settlement of arrears.
Mr. Agbodza underscored that the bulk of this payment represents arrears owed to contractors. He stated that the government had, as of the previous month, begun to reflect the payment of outstanding debts in the level of activity on project sites across the country.
This initiative represents a significant investment in the Upper East Region’s future, with President Mahama emphasizing the potential for a ‘game changer’ effect, and his commitment to ensuring the region’s economic prosperity through improved connectivity and investment opportunities. The project’s long-term success will undoubtedly be closely monitored and evaluated based on its impact on regional development.
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Source: Graphic Online
