The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Railways Authority, Mr Yaw Owusu, emphasized the importance of a well-developed railway system in achieving industrialization during a stakeholder engagement session in Takoradi.
The session aimed to gather inputs and feedback for the review of the 2020 Railway Master Plan, which is a revised version of the 2013 plan.
The outcomes of the evaluation and identification of gaps in the 2020 Railway Master Plan will be incorporated into the 2025 plan, with the goal of fostering integrated industrial enterprises in Ghana, similar to successful examples in Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea.
Mr Owusu highlighted the progress of the Tema-Mpakadan railway line, part of the 800-kilometre network connecting the southern and northern regions of Ghana, including a branch line to Sheini, where significant iron ore deposits have been discovered.
He also mentioned ongoing projects, such as the Takoradi Port to Huni Valley and Dunkwa railway line, which will benefit manganese mines at Nsuta and bauxite mines at Awaso and Nyinahin.
Mr Owusu revealed that plans were underway for additional lines, including Accra to Nsawam, Achimota to Tema, and Eduadin to Obuasi.
One of the short-term objectives is to complete the Takoradi Port to Nsuta Manganese Mines section by the end of 2024, which will enhance manganese production and transportation and increase freight revenues for the Ghana Railway Company Limited.
The Deputy Minister for Railway Development, Mr Kwaku Asante Boateng, urged engineers to revise project costs to ensure cost savings, as the current cost per kilometre is five million dollars, requiring over 20 billion dollars to complete the planned 4,000-kilometer network.
Integrating transportation systems in the country is crucial for sector improvement and cost savings on road repairs.
Mr Boateng expressed concern about the negative impact of illegal mining activities on Ghana's natural resources and called on those involved in the sector to prioritize the nation's well-being.
Nana Kobena Nketiah V, the Omanhene of Essikado Traditional Area and a railway sector advocate emphasized the need for strong leadership and progress in the railway industry, drawing attention to past achievements and advancements in technology.
