President John Dramani Mahama has confirmed the government's plans to construct a new bridge over the Afram River at Ekye Amanfrom. This crucial infrastructure development aims to transform the Afram Plains by improving access and unlocking significant agricultural and tourism opportunities.
The President urged Ghanaian investors to quickly capitalize on the emerging economic prospects in the Afram Plains. He highlighted that the area has long suffered from isolation due to difficult access routes and surrounding river systems. The new bridge will serve as a connectivity game-changer, facilitating easier movement of goods and people.
This initiative aligns with Ghana's broader economic development strategy, which seeks to diversify growth beyond traditional sectors. Improving infrastructure in historically underserved regions like the Afram Plains can spur rural development and reduce regional inequality. The government's focus on agriculture and agro-processing reflects efforts to boost local production and reduce import dependency.
Speaking to members of the Kwahu Business Advocacy group, President Mahama emphasized the importance of local participation in this transformation. He called upon Ghanaian entrepreneurs to establish large-scale agricultural ventures and processing facilities. He expressed his desire for local investors to lead the charge, rather than allowing external investors to dominate the new market. This sentiment underscores a national agenda to strengthen local ownership in key economic sectors.
The improved connectivity is expected to attract substantial investments in diverse agricultural sub-sectors. President Mahama specifically mentioned opportunities in cashew cultivation and processing, rice production, palm oil plantations, and rubber production. He cited the establishment of a large-scale rice production facility by former BOST CEO, Kwame Awuah-Darko, as an example of successful local investment. This project includes plans for a rice mill, demonstrating the value-addition potential in the region.
Beyond agriculture, the President also drew attention to the significant tourism potential of the Afram Plains. The vast Volta Lake offers opportunities for developing marinas, lakeside resorts, and other tourism infrastructure. These developments could diversify the local economy and create new job opportunities. Tourism can provide alternative revenue streams for communities in the area.
The Afram Plains, located in the Eastern Region, is renowned for its fertile agricultural land. However, it has historically faced challenges related to transportation and connectivity. These issues have limited investment and commercial activity in the region. The new bridge is anticipated to remove these barriers, fostering an environment conducive to economic growth. President Mahama believes this will create jobs, expand local businesses, and contribute to Ghana's overall economic growth and stability. This long-term investment in regional infrastructure aims to create sustainable economic benefits.