The Government of Ghana has signed a ¥3 billion (Japanese Yen) grant agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to modernize the Kumasi Inner Ring Road, a vital transport corridor in the Ashanti Region. The agreement, signed on Thursday by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, marks a major step toward easing chronic traffic congestion in Ghana’s second-largest city.
Why the Kumasi Inner Ring Road Matters
The Inner Ring Road connects the N6 and N8 highways within Kumasi and forms a critical section of the Takoradi/Tema Ports–Ouagadougou Corridor. Rapid urban growth has turned parts of this corridor into bottlenecks, causing severe traffic delays, safety concerns, and economic inefficiencies.
Key Features of the Road Improvement Project
The comprehensive Kumasi Inner Ring Road upgrade will include:
- Widening 3.2 km of road between Santasi and Ahodwo Roundabouts.
- Modernized intersections with upgraded traffic signals.
- Enhanced pedestrian walkways and drainage systems.
- Improved connectivity between Santasi Roundabout and the N8 highway.
When completed, the project is expected to triple travel speeds, reduce commuting times, and boost both passenger and freight transport efficiency across Kumasi and beyond.
Government’s Vision for Kumasi’s Transport Network
Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, emphasized that the Inner Ring Road project is part of a broader transport transformation plan for Kumasi.
“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,” Agbodza stated.
JICA’s Commitment to Ghana’s Infrastructure
ODA Ryotaro, Senior Representative of JICA Ghana, highlighted the broader significance of the grant, noting that it is the first Grant Aid from the Government of Japan after TICAD 9 in August.
“This project is especially significant as it aligns with the Yokohama Declaration, which emphasizes transport connectivity as a driver of economic growth and prosperity,” Ryotaro explained.
Beyond reducing congestion, JICA stressed that the project will:
- Improve access to schools, hospitals, and markets.
- Reduce accident risks for road users.
- Support a safer, healthier urban environment in Kumasi.
A Turning Point for Kumasi’s Transport Future
The Kumasi Inner Ring Road improvement project stands as a landmark initiative that will not only ease traffic congestion but also strengthen economic links across Ghana and the West African sub-region.
With Japan’s support through JICA, Kumasi is set to become a transport hub that drives growth, safety, and accessibility for millions of residents and businesses.
