Government is preparing a major overhaul of Ghana’s transit trade system, with plans to shift cargo movement for Sahel-bound goods from road to rail through a new dedicated freight corridor linking Takoradi to Hamile.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson says the initiative is aimed at repositioning Ghana as a key logistics gateway for landlocked countries in the Sahel while reducing the heavy strain that long-haul trucks place on the country’s road infrastructure.
According to him, the current reliance on overloaded trucks is accelerating road deterioration and undermining the value of major public investments in transport infrastructure.
“My problem here is these vehicles that are overloading and destroying the roads… it will come with very punitive measures,” he warned, indicating that stricter enforcement measures are being developed to curb overloading on major highways.
Rail Corridor to Anchor Long-Term Transit Strategy
Beyond enforcement, Dr. Forson said government’s long-term strategy is to establish a more sustainable freight system anchored on rail transport.
Under the plan, Takoradi Port would serve as the primary entry point for cargo destined for Sahel countries, which would then be transported via a proposed 1,012-kilometre railway line to Hamile in the Upper West Region.
“Bring your goods to Takoradi and they will haul it straight by rail to Hamile,” he stated, describing the proposal as both a medium- and long-term solution to Ghana’s transit challenges.
Regional Engagement Underway
The Finance Minister disclosed that discussions have already begun with Burkina Faso, Mali and other Sahel partners on financing and implementation arrangements for the project, which is expected to take between three and five years to complete.
If implemented, the rail corridor is expected to ease congestion on highways, reduce maintenance costs, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a strategic transit hub for West African trade.
