Gov’t fast-tracks Accra–Kumasi expressway with military-led groundwork

The Ghana Armed Forces has commenced early-stage works on the long-anticipated Accra–Kumasi Expressway, marking a significant step toward the delivery of one of Ghana’s most ambitious road infrastructure projects.

Initial activities involve the clearing of dense vegetation along the project corridor, with nearly 18 kilometres already completed out of a planned 175.6-kilometre right-of-way. The exercise is considered a critical preparatory phase ahead of full-scale construction.

The Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, disclosed the progress in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, May 5, highlighting what he described as rapid mobilisation on the ground.

According to him, four military work gangs are currently operating continuously from Asuboa near Akim Oda, working under challenging weather conditions to meet a 20-week timeline for the initial phase of the project.

So far, 17.75 kilometres of thick vegetation have been cleared, paving the way for subsequent engineering works.

The Accra–Kumasi Expressway, a planned six-lane highway stretching approximately 198.7 kilometres, is a flagship infrastructure project under the administration of John Dramani Mahama. Once completed, it is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Accra and Kumasi from about six hours to roughly two hours.

Government officials say the expressway will help decongest the existing route, improve transport efficiency, and boost economic activity between the southern and middle belts of the country.

Dr. Forson has previously reaffirmed government’s commitment to completing the project within three years, despite public scepticism about the timeline. He reiterated this position during a media appearance in late 2025.

The involvement of the military forms part of an engineering support arrangement, with senior leadership actively monitoring progress. The Chief of Defence Staff, General William Agyapong, has reportedly inspected the site and commended personnel for their pace and dedication.

Although the project remains in its early stages, authorities emphasise that the current clearing works are essential to laying a solid foundation for the construction phase of what is expected to transform road transport in Ghana.