Transport Minister, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, has expressed government’s commitment and belief in the private sector to help execute the Keta port project in the Volta Region.
According to him, the findings of the “feasibility studies” on the project are positive. Mr Asiamah noted that the studies show that the project is “very viable” although a project of this nature is highly capital intensive and government on its own may not be able to finance it all
Speaking at a stakeholder meeting organised in Accra, Mr Asiamah revealed that the studies have revealed that the first phase project will cost about $650 million. He expressed concerns that government alone cannot fund the project which is expected to become the country’s third port platforms after that of Tema.
“We are gathered here… because of our commitment and belief in the private sector to support government and this is the way that we want to finance the project. I want to lay emphasis that the involvement of the private sector, it will bring the needed capital, expertise and efficiencies to the delivery of this project”.
Mr Kwaku Ofori Asiamah
The Transport Minister noted that some companies have already “expressed some interest” in participating in the port development. Following this, Mr Asiamah disclosed that he is looking forward to the other private sector investors or interest in this project.
“This government under the leadership of His Excellency is committed to see the realization of the Keta port project… I know the commitment of His Excellency… We believe it will be the game changer as far as the economic situation of the Volta Region and the Oti Region are concerned”.
Mr Kwaku Ofori Asiamah
Addressing concerns of Keta locals
On his part, Board Chair of the Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority (GPHA), Isaac Osei, revealed that his outfit will ensure that no interested party or stakeholder is left out as the Authority gets into the subsequent phases of this project. He underscored the Authority’s determination to ensure that locals inputs are captured and incorporated into what they have.
Mr Osei emphasized that some of the things that have been done “behind the scene” will be laid bare to the locals of the community.
“As an Authority, we are not oblivious to some of the issues and concerns that have come up from sections of the populace in the area. I am happy that during our recent visit to introduce the new governing Board of the Authority to the revered Awoemefia of the Anlo state… they all assured us of their unflinching support for this project. In our collective determination to answer the call of our government to ensure the coming into being of the port of Keta, their support and collaboration is imperative”.
Mr Isaac Osei
The GPHA Board Chair assured all stakeholders that beyond the engagement, the Authority will always endeavour to be ready and willing to welcome new ideas and suggestions on the way forward as they progress in executing the demands of the project.
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