President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to incorporate the redevelopment of the Western Rail Line into the government’s flagship Big Push programme.
Speaking at the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebrations at Jackson Park in Koforidua, the President said the move forms part of a broader strategy to revitalise key sectors and boost industrial productivity.
The Western Rail Line project is expected to improve the transport of commodities such as bauxite, manganese, and cocoa, enhancing efficiency along the Western Corridor and strengthening links to Ghana’s ports.
Mahama indicated that the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to revive state-owned enterprises. He noted that the Tema Oil Refinery has resumed operations, while the Agricultural Development Bank and the National Investment Bank have been recapitalised. He also cited signs of recovery at the Tema Shipyard.
The President urged workers and unions, particularly the Ghana Trades Union Congress, to actively call out inefficiencies and mismanagement in state enterprises, warning that workers bear the consequences when such institutions fail.
In response, Joshua Ansah, Secretary-General of the TUC, welcomed the government’s efforts but stressed that sustainable job creation must be driven by a strong private sector. He called for policies to reduce borrowing costs, including capping the spread between lending and deposit rates to stimulate private investment.
The initiative is part of a wider agenda to modernise infrastructure, strengthen industry, and expand employment opportunities across the economy.
