Govt Settles $25m Debt on Suame Interchange Project, Completion Set for 2027
Suame Interchange back on track as government clears arrears and targets 2027 completion under Big Push programme
- Government clears $25 million debt owed to Suame Interchange contractor, paving way for full resumption of work.
- Roads Minister says project is expected to be completed by the end of 2027 under the Big Push initiative.
- Accra–Kumasi Expressway also announced, aiming to cut travel time between the two cities to about two hours.
The Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has announced that government has fully cleared a $25 million debt owed to the contractor working on the Suame Interchange project, paving the way for construction to resume at full scale.
According to the minister, the project had stalled due to challenges arising from the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), as it was initially financed through a domestic commercial loan. However, it has now been incorporated into the government’s Big Push infrastructure initiative.
“All outstanding debts have been settled, and we expect the contractor to fully mobilise and complete the project by the end of 2027,” he stated.
Briefing the Asantehene
Mr Agbodza made these remarks during a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace. The visit aimed to update him on progress on the Suame Interchange and preparations for the upcoming Accra-Kumasi Expressway project.
He also sought the support and cooperation of traditional leaders in affected communities to ensure the smooth execution of the projects.
Project Redesign and Traffic Relief Plans
The minister revealed that the original four-tier design of the Suame Interchange has been revised to a three-tier structure due to ongoing developments in the area.
He explained that additional road infrastructure, including a planned bypass around Ejisu, would help ease congestion in Kumasi by allowing through-traffic to avoid the city centre.
“Commuters who do not need to enter Kumasi can use the bypass, reducing pressure on the Suame Interchange,” he said.
Accra-Kumasi Expressway Project
Mr Agbodza also outlined plans for the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway, a major infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity between Ghana’s two largest cities.
The expressway, also part of the Big Push programme, is expected to significantly reduce travel time from the current six hours to approximately two hours once completed.
“This will be a controlled freeway that offers a faster and more efficient travel option,” he noted.
He added that the new route would largely bypass communities, enabling faster construction without disrupting settlements.
Military Support and Implementation
The Ghana Armed Forces will play a key role in the initial stages of the project. According to Colonel Jonas Wiafe, the military will clear the designated right of way over an 80-kilometre stretch in the Ashanti Region within 20 weeks to prepare for construction.
Asantehene Welcomes Initiative
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II welcomed the projects, noting that Ghana has lacked an alternative route between Accra and Kumasi for nearly 70 years.
He pointed out that the existing road is overstretched and frequently requires repairs, stressing the importance of new infrastructure to support economic growth.
The Asantehene also endorsed the plan to toll the expressway, stating that it would help government recover the cost of the investment.
The settlement of the contractor’s debt and renewed commitment to key road projects signal a major step toward improving transportation and easing congestion in Kumasi and along one of Ghana’s busiest corridors.
