The Government of Ghana has signed a ¥3 billion (Japanese Yen) grant agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to overhaul the Inner Ring Road in Kumasi.
The agreement, signed today by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, will support a comprehensive road improvement project aimed at easing severe congestion, reducing travel times, and improving safety in Ghana’s second-largest city.
The Inner Ring Road is a critical artery linking the N6 and N8 within Kumasi and forms part of the Takoradi/Tema Ports–Ouagadougou Corridor. However, rapid urbanization and increased vehicle use have turned sections of the road into bottlenecks, creating delays and accident risks for commuters.
Under the project, JICA will finance the following upgrades:
- Widening of 3.2 km of road between Santasi and Ahodwo Roundabouts,
- Upgraded intersections with modern traffic signals,
- Enhanced pedestrian walkways and drainage systems, and
- Improved connectivity between Santasi Roundabout and the N8.
When completed, travel speeds on this stretch are expected to more than triple, drastically cutting journey times for both commuters and freight operators.
Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, welcomed the JICA support, stressing that the Inner Ring Road upgrade is part of a broader transformation plan for Kumasi’s transport system.
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“We are deeply grateful to JICA for this generous support and continued partnership with Ghana. But this is only one piece of the puzzle. From the Suame Interchange to the Konongo Bypass and the forthcoming 45km Kumasi Outer Ring Road, our vision is to reshape Kumasi’s transport landscape and unlock economic and social opportunities for millions,” he said.
JICA Ghana’s Senior Representative, Mr. ODA Ryotaro, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative.
“This project is especially significant as it marks the first Grant Aid to be newly delivered from the Government of Japan after TICAD 9 in August. It aligns directly with the Yokohama Declaration, which emphasizes improving transport connectivity as a driver of growth and prosperity,” he noted.
Beyond reducing congestion, the project is expected to improve access to schools, hospitals, and markets, enhance road safety, and create a healthier urban environment for Kumasi residents.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
