Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has revealed plans to transform the Takoradi Port into a major gateway for cargo destined for landlocked Sahel countries through a proposed railway connection to Hamile in the Upper West Region.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Ghana’s position as a regional transit and logistics hub while reducing the heavy burden placed on the country’s road network by cargo trucks.
According to a report by citinewsroom.com on Monday, June 22, 2026, the minister expressed concern over the damage caused by overloaded vehicles, indicating that authorities are preparing stricter sanctions to curb the practice.
“My problem here is these vehicles that are overloading and destroying the roads. We will ensure that overloading and destroying this investment that we are making becomes a thing of the past, and it will come with very punitive measures,” he said.
Ato Forson explained that beyond enforcement measures, government is pursuing a long-term solution through the development of a 1,012-kilometre railway line that will transport goods directly from Takoradi to Hamile for onward movement into neighbouring Sahel countries.
“The long term and the medium term is for us to have a railway that will serve our brothers and sisters in the Sahel. Bring your goods to Takoradi and they will be hauled straight by rail to Hamile,” he stated.
The proposed rail corridor is expected to ease pressure on major highways, preserve road infrastructure, boost cross-border trade, and enhance Ghana’s competitiveness as a preferred transit destination in West Africa.
The Finance Minister disclosed that engagements had already begun with Burkina Faso, Mali, and other Sahelian countries on financing arrangements for the project, which is expected to be completed within three to five years.
Source: Ghanaweb
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