The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on government to prioritise the completion of the Boankra Integrated Logistics Terminal (BILT), highlighting its importance in job creation and economic development.
Speaking during a high-level meeting at the Manhyia Palace, the Asantehene stressed that the project would not only create direct employment but also stimulate economic activity across the Ashanti Region and the northern parts of the country.
He noted that once operational, the terminal would generate opportunities along the logistics and supply chain, particularly when cargo begins to arrive at the facility.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, however, expressed concern over the prolonged delays in completing the project, warning that failure to finish it could result in significant financial losses to the state.
He pointed out that institutions such as the Ghana Shippers Authority and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority have already made substantial investments, which risk going to waste if the project is not completed.
The Asantehene made the remarks when a delegation from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, led by Board Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, paid a courtesy call on him. The delegation included the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, as well as representatives from Justmoh Construction.
Prior to the meeting, the team inspected the project site to assess the level of progress.
Otumfuo further urged government to explore internal funding options while efforts continue to attract strategic investors, noting that visible progress on the ground is key to securing investor confidence.
According to him, consistent funding and tangible improvements are essential to attracting the capital needed to complete the project.
The Boankra Inland Port, a major dry port initiative, is intended to bring cargo handling services closer to central and northern Ghana. However, nearly two decades after its commencement, the project has faced multiple delays and missed deadlines.
Recent assessments indicate that work on the project stands at about six percent completion, far below the expected 20 percent by April 2026, largely due to funding constraints.
Despite this, some components of the infrastructure are nearing completion, with the terminal area almost finished, while the freight station, mechanical workshop and bonded warehouse are at advanced stages.
However, key elements such as the interchange have yet to commence due to lack of funds, while the fire station is only partially completed.
Funding challenges have also affected contractors’ ability to operate at full capacity, further slowing progress.
Addressing the Asantehene, Board Chairman of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to completing the project, describing it as critical to national development and revenue generation.
He assured that funds invested so far have been used effectively, particularly in groundwork preparation, and stressed the need to push ahead with completion.
He also acknowledged the importance of rail connectivity to the terminal but indicated that operations could initially begin using road transport while efforts continue to secure investment for railway infrastructure.
