The Ghana Armed Forces has commenced preliminary works on the Accra–Kumasi Expressway, clearing nearly 18 kilometres of dense vegetation as part of preparations for the project’s 175.6-kilometre right-of-way.
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson disclosed the development in a post on X on Tuesday, May 5, describing the pace of mobilisation as significant for one of the government’s flagship infrastructure initiatives.
According to the Minister, four military work teams are operating continuously from Asuboa near Akim Oda, working under challenging weather conditions to complete the initial phase within a 20-week timeframe.
The ongoing clearing exercise has so far covered approximately 17.75 kilometres along the designated corridor, forming a critical first step toward full-scale construction.
The Accra–Kumasi Expressway, envisioned as a six-lane highway spanning about 198.7 kilometres, remains a central infrastructure priority under the administration of President John Dramani Mahama. Upon completion, it is expected to reduce travel time between Accra and Kumasi from an average of six hours to approximately two hours.
Government officials indicate that the project will ease congestion on the existing route, enhance transport efficiency, and stimulate economic activity between the southern and middle belts of the country.
Dr Forson has previously reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the expressway within three years, despite public scepticism regarding the timeline.
The involvement of the Ghana Armed Forces forms part of an engineering support arrangement, with senior military leadership closely monitoring progress. The Chief of Defence Staff, General William Agyapong, has reportedly inspected the works and commended personnel for their efficiency.
Although still at an early stage, authorities emphasise that the clearing phase is essential to laying the groundwork for what is expected to be one of Ghana’s most ambitious road infrastructure projects in recent years.
