Ghana's operational rail network has declined sharply over the past six decades, falling from 947 kilometres in 1960 to just 160 kilometres in 2020. The World Bank disclosed this significant reduction, highlighting a critical weakness in the nation's transport infrastructure. This 83% contraction severely limits Ghana's capacity to efficiently move both people and goods across the country.
Robert R. Taliercio, the World Bank Division Director for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, stated this decline has weakened Ghana’s overall transport system. He explained that the rail sector operates far below its potential, hindering national connectivity and competitiveness. The World Bank presented these findings at the launch of its Tenth Ghana Economic Update in Accra, stressing the urgent need for attention to this vital sector.
This dramatic reduction in rail infrastructure fits into a broader narrative of underinvestment and neglect in Ghana's public utilities. The country has struggled with maintaining critical infrastructure, often leading to increased costs for businesses and reduced market access for producers. This trend contrasts with the need for robust transport networks to support Ghana's growing economy and trade ambitions, especially within the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Mr. Taliercio explicitly stated, “The rail network has effectively collapsed from 947 kilometres of operational rail in 1960 to just 160 in 2020, with population access dropping from nearly 30 percent to less than 1 percent.” He underscored that this situation demands a coordinated strategy to revitalize the entire transport sector. Specifically, he pointed to rail infrastructure, particularly for freight movement, as a priority area for transformation.
The implications of this decline are far-reaching, affecting economic growth, job creation, and market access. The World Bank has identified freight-led rail revitalization along the western and eastern corridors as one of six priority areas. This initiative aims to transform Ghana's transport sector, boosting its economic competitiveness. Rebuilding this infrastructure is seen as critical for connecting communities and businesses to markets, fostering broader economic development.
Mr. Taliercio emphasized that this is more than just an infrastructure problem; it is a story about growth, competitiveness, and jobs. Other priorities include operationalizing the Road Maintenance Trust Fund and developing a unified national transport sector strategy. Treating road safety as a fiscal and public health emergency is also crucial. Adopting climate-resilient infrastructure standards and extending Ghana’s Digital Single Window to Takoradi and inland terminals are further key steps.
The World Bank official stressed that infrastructure investment must be supported by stronger institutional coordination, effective maintenance financing, and improved governance. He warned against building new roads without proper maintenance, stating this accelerates degradation. The World Bank supports Ghana’s transport infrastructure agenda through the $500 million Ghana Market Access and Connectivity Project. This project includes funding to rehabilitate about 1,050 kilometres of feeder roads under performance-based maintenance contracts. These efforts aim to reverse the long-term decline and build a more resilient and efficient transport system for Ghana's future.