The Abidjan -Lagos Corridor Highway Development project covers around a 1,028 km road network which will connect major cities and crosses an area with high economic potential which represents about 75 per cent of the volume of trade in West Africa.
The project forms part of the 2050 ECOWAS vision to enhance infrastructure development as a factor for economic growth and integration of persons within the subregion.
At a stakeholders’ sensitization meeting in the Western Region, the Director of Policy Planning and Budgeting Ministry of Roads and Highways, Ing. Mrs Rita Ohene Sarfo explained the need for the construction.
Out of a total road length of 1,028 km expected to be constructed, Ghana alone accounts for 576km.
The objective of the workshop was to sensitise the MMDAs, chiefs, and technical and political staff on the purpose of the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Project and its importance to regional development as well as, seek suggestions and recommendations from them to inform the project preparation and implementation
She implored traditional authorities and land owners to be cooperative in the acquisition of land for the project.
” We came here to let you know the alignment that we have taken to solicit your views and understanding, and also to request the cooperation of the traditional rulers and landowners that we will be coming in to acquire lands for the project.
This project is part of Africa’s revolution to be recognized globally and we also stand out. This corridor was chosen by the African Union as one of the most viable roads that promote trade and transport in Africa, ” Mrs Ohene Sarfoh said.
Touching on funding for the projects, Ing. Mrs Ohene Sarfo indicated that the African Development Bank is leading the source for the funding, each member state contributed an amount of One Million Dollars for the project construction.
According to her, the design of the project is expected to be completed by the end of this year, and work on the six-lane dual carriage is to start next year.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Director of the Regional Coordinating Council, Director of Administration, Daphine Kemeh expressed gratitude to the Ministry and partners for holding the Forum in the Western region.
She noted that the project aside from improving connectivity and integration among member states, aims at modernising the road systems.
” This project involves many ECOWAS countries, a joint effort by the government of Cote D’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria with the help of international partners such as the African Development Bank and the European Union.
The initiative to my knowledge will address many challenges as the project will provide a convenient integrated and reliable transportation infrastructure that will stimulate regional trade and job growth,” She said.
At the workshop was representative from the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies, Security Agencies, Traditional authorities and amongst others.
