The Government of Ghana has signed a ¥3 billion (Japanese Yen) grant agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to undertake a major upgrade of Kumasi’s Inner Ring Road. The signing ceremony was led by Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, on Thursday, 2nd October 2025.
Dr. Forson described the Inner Ring Road as a lifeline for Kumasi, linking the N6 and N8 highways and serving as part of the Takoradi/Tema Ports–Ouagadougou Corridor. Yet, he noted, Kumasi’s rapid growth has turned this vital road into a daily challenge, with severe congestion, delays, and safety risks for thousands of road users.
“This project is about more than asphalt and concrete,” Dr. Forson emphasized. “It is about giving people back their time, ensuring safer journeys, and supporting the movement of goods and services that drive our economy.”
The project will deliver key improvements, including:
Widening 3.2 km of road between Santasi and Ahodwo Roundabouts,
Upgrading intersections with modern traffic signals,
Improving pedestrian facilities and drainage systems, and
Enhancing connectivity between Santasi Roundabout and the N8 highway.
When completed, travel speeds are expected to more than triple, journey times will reduce sharply, and both passengers and freight will move far more efficiently across the city.
On behalf of the Government, Dr. Forson expressed deep gratitude to JICA for its continuous partnership with Ghana. “This support is not just financial—it is a mark of friendship and shared vision for development,” he said.
He added that the Inner Ring Road project is part of a larger infrastructure drive for Kumasi. Other works underway include the Suame Interchange and local roads, the Sunyani Road Phase 2, the Konongo Bypass, and the forthcoming 45 km Kumasi Outer Ring Road.
“With these projects, Kumasi will not only ease its traffic burden but also position itself as a true transport hub for Ghana and the West African sub-region,” Dr. Forson concluded.
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