ACCRA, Ghana, 27th August: President John Dramani Mahama has announced that preparations are advanced for the construction of a new airport in Bolgatanga, with procurement processes also underway for proposed regional airports in Wa and Nsuatre.
According to the President, the projects form part of government’s broader strategy to expand aviation infrastructure and improve air connectivity across Ghana.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the multi-purpose, multi-tiered car park and airport hotels complex at the Accra International Airport, President Mahama said aviation development must not be concentrated only in the capital.
He disclosed that during his recent visit to the Upper East Region, he inspected the site earmarked for the development of the new Bolgatanga Airport.
“I am pleased to announce that preparations are well advanced to start construction of that airport,” he said.
President Mahama also announced that government was going through procurement processes for new regional airports in Wa in the Upper West Region and Nsuatre in the Bono Region.
He said the projects, when completed, would enhance connectivity while supporting trade, tourism, investment and regional economic development.
The President also highlighted ongoing work at the Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi, particularly the extension of the runway to accommodate heavier long-haul passenger aircraft capable of undertaking international flights.
He expressed hope that passengers would soon be able to fly directly from Kumasi to international destinations around the world.
President Mahama said regional aviation had the potential to reduce travel times, connect producers to markets, support emergency services and create new tourism and investment corridors.
However, he cautioned that the development of regional airports must be carefully planned, commercially responsible and integrated with road transport systems and local development strategies.
He said Ghana’s aviation development must be national in scope and transformational in its impact.
“Our strategy therefore is not merely to attract more passengers to Ghana, it is to make Ghana a preferred destination, a convenient transit point and a competitive aviation hub in Africa,” he said.
The President noted that Ghana’s geographical location provided a comparative advantage, but stressed that location alone was not sufficient.
He said the country must combine its location with efficient regulation, strong safety standards, excellent customer service, competitive aviation services and reliable ground transportation.
President Mahama also disclosed that government had removed duties and taxes on aircraft spare parts for domestic airlines under the newly assented Ghana Customs Act.
He said the measure was intended to make domestic airlines safer by allowing them to import spare parts for aircraft maintenance duty-free and tax-free.
President Mahama said the measure would benefit domestic operators while supporting the growth and safety of Ghana’s aviation industry.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to investing in aviation infrastructure, strengthening connectivity and building an aviation sector capable of competing at the highest level in Africa and beyond.
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh(#RomeoWrites✍️)/ Presidential Affairs Correspondent | Ghana 🇬🇭
