First-ever standard gauge railway unveiled to reshape transportation

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has officially inaugurated the Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line and diesel multiple-unit trains, marking a historic milestone in Ghana’s transportation infrastructure.
The 100-kilometer rail line, the first standard gauge railway in the nation, is set to reshape the transportation landscape and catalyze economic growth.

Transforming Ghana’s infrastructure
The Tema-Mpakadan rail line is part of Ghana’s broader multimodal transport strategy, designed to integrate rail, road, and inland water transport systems.
This transformative project provides a sustainable alternative to the overburdened road network and enhances connectivity across the country.
As a segment of the 1,000-kilometer Ghana-Burkina Faso Interconnectivity Project, the railway line will link Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso to the Port of Tema.
The connection aims to improve the efficiency of port operations, reduce road congestion, and enhance Ghana’s competitiveness in trade logistics.

A $447m investment in economic growth
Funded through a $447 million credit facility from the India Exim Bank and executed by Afcons Infrastructure Limited, the project began in 2018.
Italian engineering firm Team Engineering oversaw the construction of tracks, bridges, stations, and ancillary facilities.
The railway is expected to generate significant employment opportunities and stimulate economic activities along the route.
The rail line will support the transportation of goods such as fuel, cement, and agricultural produce, benefiting local communities and neighboring landlocked nations.

Reducing road congestion
By shifting long-distance freight and passenger transport from roads to rail, the Tema-Mpakadan line aims to alleviate severe traffic congestion, reduce road maintenance costs, and minimize road accidents.
Additionally, the railway will enhance Tema Port’s competitiveness by reducing vessel waiting times and container dwelling times, streamlining the movement of goods, and improving overall efficiency.

Boosting trade and agriculture
The railway is expected to lower freight costs, enhancing the profitability of agricultural enterprises along the Volta Lake.
This will promote economic activities in northern Ghana and foster regional trade integration.
By combining rail and inland water transport, the project is poised to revolutionize trade logistics, reduce transportation costs, and support sustainable development across the nation.

Akufo-Addo lauds railway development
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony near Tema Harbour, President Akufo-Addo described the project as a cornerstone of the government’s commitment to modernizing Ghana’s railway system.
“This critical infrastructure reduces road traffic congestion, improves transport safety, and strengthens regional integration,” the President remarked.
Highlighting the global efficiency of rail transport for bulk goods and large passenger numbers, he emphasized its role in reducing business costs and fostering economic growth.

Acknowledging governance continuity
President Akufo-Addo acknowledged that the project was initially conceived under former President John A. Kufuor’s administration, emphasizing the importance of continuity in governance for national development.
He also expressed gratitude to India for its financial support and commended the resilience and cooperation of the affected communities.

Vision for a modern transport network
Minister for Railway Development John-Peter Amewu hailed the railway line as a vital component of Ghana’s revised 2020 Railway Master Plan.
He noted that further expansions are planned to unlock the full potential of the nation’s economy through sustained investment in infrastructure.

Preserving the legacy for future generations
The President called on Ghanaians to take pride in and safeguard the railway infrastructure for the benefit of future generations.
With its long-term impact on businesses, commuters, and communities, the Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line symbolizes Ghana’s forward-looking leadership and commitment to sustainable development.