Rail transport is expected to resume on the newly constructed Tema – Mpakadan Railway Line by October 2025, marking a significant step in Ghana’s efforts to modernise and diversify its transportation network.
The 99-kilometer rail line is a key component of the broader Ghana – Burkina Faso Railway Inter-connectivity Project, which aims to improve regional trade, logistics, and passenger transport across West Africa.
Speaking to TV3’s Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA), Dr. Frederick Appoh, confirmed the operational readiness of the railway line.
He noted that the commencement of oper ations is part of the government’s strategy to revive and reposition railway transport as a critical pillar of national development.
“We are proud to announce that operations on the Tema-Mpakadan rail line will begin in October 1, 2025. This is just the beginning of a long-term plan to enhance both passenger and freight rail services in Ghana,” Dr. Appoh stated.
Connecting road, rail, and lake transport
The Tema – Mpakadan railway line has been strategically designed to serve as a multi-modal transport link, connecting the southern part of the country to the north and beyond.
Once freight is transported from the Tema Port to Mpakadan via rail, cargo will be transferred onto barges on the Volta Lake, and shipped to the northern regions of Ghana and onward to Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso.
This multi-modal approach combining rail, road, and inland water transport is expected to significantly reduce congestion on Ghana’s road networks, lower logistics costs, and open up new trade corridors across the West African sub-region.
Seven modern train stations have been constructed along the railway line to facilitate passenger movement and cargo handling. These stations are equipped with essential amenities and are strategically located to serve communities along the corridor.
Dr. Appoh also revealed that additional trains will be procured in the coming weeks to expand capacity and improve service delivery. These trains are expected to support both freight and passenger operations, ensuring that the railway becomes a reliable and efficient transport option.
“This is just phase one. We are in the process of acquiring more trains to meet anticipated demand. Rail transport is the future, and Ghana is fully committed to building a resilient rail infrastructure,” Dr. Appoh emphasized.
The launch of the Tema-Mpakadan railway is expected to bring multiple economic benefits, including:
- Enhanced trade and logistics efficiency.
- Reduced pressure on road infrastructure.
- Job creation through railway operations and support services.
- Strengthened regional integration with Burkina Faso and other landlocked countries.
As the October launch date approaches, stakeholders across the transport and logistics sectors are gearing up for what could become a game-changer in Ghana’s transportation landscape.
Transport Minister: Gov’t close to resolving unpaid salaries of railway workers
