His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama has declared that the Tema Integrated Industrial Park marks the beginning of a transformative chapter in Ghana’s industrialisation agenda. President Mahama indicated that the project represents a deliberate move towards building a productive economy anchored on manufacturing, exports and long-term job creation.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the industrial park, His Excellency first acknowledged the devastating floods that struck parts of southern Ghana between June 28 and June 29. The President noted that approximately 140 millimetres of rainfall fell within 24 hours, triggering severe flooding across Accra, Winneba and surrounding coastal communities.
He extended sympathy to families whose relatives remain missing and to residents who suffered injuries and property losses. Additionally, President Mahama stated that the tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the growing impact of climate change on vulnerable communities.
“Climate change is real. Nature dumped 140 millimetres of rain on southern Ghana in just 24 hours. The consequences were severe and painful for many families across the country.”
His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama
Shifting to the industrial project, the President credited Julius Debrah for initiating discussions that eventually led to the partnership with ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms. He explained that initial engagements introduced government to the company’s industrial development model across Africa.
Furthermore, President Mahama recounted how a delegation travelled to Benin to assess an existing industrial zone developed by ARISE. The visit, he said, demonstrated the potential of integrated industrial parks to boost exports and value addition.
He also stressed on the collaborative efforts required to launch the project. The President commended the Tema Development Corporation, the Ministry of Works and Housing and other institutions for resolving technical and administrative bottlenecks.
He acknowledged that the process involved delays, disagreements and institutional frustrations. Nevertheless, President Mahama said sustained cooperation eventually aligned all stakeholders behind a common national objective.
The focus is on the long-term impact of the project on Ghana’s industrial future. President Mahama remarked that the industrial park would accelerate structural transformation and position Ghana as a stronger player in regional manufacturing.
“This is the beginning of a transformation in industrialisation in Ghana. It is a journey that will redefine production, exports and national prosperity for generations.”
His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama
The President further stated that the park symbolises confidence in Ghana’s productive capacity. He added that the initiative demonstrates government’s commitment to building industries that create lasting economic value.
Industrial Park To Drive Exports And Job Creation
His Excellency, President Mahama continued by outlining the economic vision behind the Tema Integrated Industrial Park. He described the project as a strategic investment designed to deepen industrial production and strengthen Ghana’s competitiveness within Africa.
Discussing the economic significance of the project, President Mahama stated that the ceremony represents more than physical infrastructure development. He said it embodies a national commitment to production-led growth and shared prosperity.
Moreover, the President explained that Ghana’s economic future depends on moving beyond raw material exports. He stressed that value addition, industrial processing and export diversification are central to sustainable growth.
“When Ghanaians entrusted us with leadership, we pledged to restructure the economy through production, exports and value addition. That commitment remains the guiding principle of this administration.”
His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama
Closely tied to this vision is the government’s 24-hour economy and accelerated exports development programme. President Mahama said the policy framework seeks to unlock industrial productivity while expanding employment opportunities for young people.
In light of this agenda, the Tema Integrated Industrial Park was identified as a flagship project capable of delivering measurable economic impact. The President noted that the development will enhance industrial capacity and strengthen supply chains.
Highlighting the role of manufacturing in national development, President Mahama indicated that stronger manufacturing output would reduce dependency on imports while boosting export earnings.
Additionally, he described the park as an investment in Ghanaian ingenuity and enterprise. The project, he said, would create space for innovation, large-scale production and regional trade integration.
Of significant importance is the choice of Tema as the project location. President Mahama recalled that Kwame Nkrumah envisioned Tema as Ghana’s industrial hub during the country’s early post-independence development.
He said the new industrial park revives that historic ambition and gives renewed meaning to Tema’s founding purpose. The President added that the city is critical to Ghana’s industrial and logistics architecture.
Addressing the national picture, President Mahama reiterated government’s resolve to build a resilient economy powered by domestic production. He said sustained industrial expansion would strengthen Ghana’s role as West Africa’s preferred destination for manufacturing and trade.
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