Accra, Ghana – Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, today announced the signing of a ¥3 billion (Japanese Yen) grant agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to improve the Inner Ring Road in Kumasi. The grant, equivalent to approximately $20 million, is dedicated to easing chronic traffic congestion on a vital segment of the country’s road network.
The Inner Ring Road serves as a crucial link between the N6 and N8 national roads within Kumasi and forms a key part of the Takoradi/Tema Ports–Ouagadougou Corridor. However, increasing traffic has created significant bottlenecks, leading to severe congestion, delays, and safety risks.
The project is specifically designed to address these issues by widening a 3.2 km stretch of road between the Santasi and Ahodwo Roundabouts. The scope of work also includes upgrading intersections with modern traffic signals, improving pedestrian facilities, and enhancing drainage systems. Once completed, the government anticipates a remarkable transformation, with travel speeds expected to more than triple and journey times drastically reduced, significantly improving efficiency for both passenger and freight movement.
Dr. Forson expressed the government’s deep gratitude to JICA for the generous support, noting the project is part of a broader infrastructure agenda for the Ashanti Region. Other major ongoing and upcoming road works in Kumasi include the Suame Interchange and Local Roads, the Sunyani Road (Phase 2), the Konongo Bypass, and the forthcoming 45km Kumasi Outer Ring Road.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
