President John Dramani Mahama has announced the introduction of a strict weight restriction regime aimed at enforcing discipline on Ghana’s roads and ensuring that road infrastructure lasts its full lifespan.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the redevelopment of the Cape Coast–Takoradi National Route (N1) in Takoradi, President Mahama said consultations will soon begin with transport owners ahead of the policy’s inclusion in the next national budget.
“There are trucks in this country that load 120 tonnes when the maximum load is supposed to be 50 tonnes. No road can stand 120 tonnes per truck,” the President said. “We’ll consult the drivers’ union and transporters to implement strict weight restrictions so that the roads we build can last.”
Part of the Big Push Agenda and 24-Hour Economy Policy
The Cape Coast–Takoradi Road redevelopment forms a critical component of Ghana’s National Route 1 (N1) and the Trans–West African Highway, linking Accra to Takoradi. The corridor currently handles over 90% of freight and passenger movement to the Western Region and connects major tourism destinations such as Cape Coast and Elmina.
The existing two-lane carriageway is heavily congested, prone to accidents, and contributes to long travel times and high transport costs.
President Mahama described the dualization of the highway as a strategic national intervention under the Big Push infrastructure programme and 24-hour economy policy, designed to improve road safety, enhance logistics efficiency, and boost regional economic growth.
“This project represents our commitment to building resilient infrastructure that supports industrial growth, trade, and tourism,” President Mahama emphasized.
Project Details
The 73.6-kilometre project will be executed in three contiguous lots for efficient implementation. It includes:
- Three interchanges
- Four major bridges
- Two pedestrian facilities
Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza, reaffirmed government’s commitment to local participation in road construction, noting that many of the contractors are Ghanaian.
“We are intentional about promoting local content in road projects. Contractors participating in President Mahama’s Big Push must deliver the best roads Ghana has ever seen,” Agbodza said.
He urged contractors to remain on-site and maintain high construction standards to ensure value for money.
Strict Weight Regulation to Protect Road Investment
The introduction of the weight restriction policy is expected to protect national road investments from premature deterioration caused by overloaded trucks. Ghana loses millions of cedis annually to road damage from excessive vehicle loads, leading to frequent repairs and increased transport costs.
President Mahama’s new directive is seen as a bold move to enforce road discipline and extend the lifespan of major highways. The President assured Ghanaians that the 24-month project timeline will be strictly adhered to, with no delays anticipated.
“This project will be completed within 24 months. We are determined to deliver quality and durable infrastructure for the people of Ghana,” he said.
The Big Push Agenda is one of President Mahama’s flagship infrastructure programmes aimed at revitalizing Ghana’s economy through large-scale investments in roads, bridges, railways, energy, and social infrastructure. The Cape Coast–Takoradi Road redevelopment aligns with this vision by improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and promoting trade and tourism across the Western and Central Regions.
