Ashanti Ports Services commends Gov't for awarding local concessionaire, Boankra Inland Port project

The concessionaire of the Boankra Inland Port in the Ashanti Region, who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of Ashanti Ports Services Limited, Isaac Afum has commended the Akufo-Addo administration for its support and confidence in picking a local concessionaire for the development of the Boankra inland Port.

He extended the same gratitude to the Minister of Transport and the Shippers Authority for their continuous support.

He also thanked the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his role, advice, and unflinching support to the progress of the project.

He added that it will be recalled that early this year Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority bought shares in the project and is now a shareholder in the project.

According to the report, work on the much talked-about project is gradually taking shape as the sub-contractor on site, 

Justmoh Construction Limited, works round the clock to complete various construction works.

Currently, the contractor on site is making progres with the construction of drainage and other earthworks.

This included leveling the ground for the terminal and commercial area.

Mr. Isaac Afum, after leading officials from the Ashanti Ports Services Limited to witness the progress of work on the project, was impressed with the progress and quality of work done at that stage.

According to him, the contractor was within schedule and that they expected it to be completed and commissioned by next year, November, barring any challenges.

To ensure the timely completion of the project, he said plans were far advanced to bring on board two different contractors on site to augment the existing one.

He further added that additional funding for the project was secured as Africa Export-Import Bank (Afeximbank) was committing some 280 million dollars into the project, adding that, another financier from Italy is also supporting it with an additional 100 million U.S dollars.

The contract for the commencement of work on the project was awarded in November 2020, after President Akufo-Addo cut sod for the project which had stalled for many years.

Mr. Afum was optimistic that the completion of the project would not only boost business opportunities in the region but also create jobs for the masses, especially youth, through direct and indirect employment.

The Project Manager of the Boankra Inland Port, Jarrar Saddique, briefed the media about the progress of work.

Board Chairman of Ashanti Ports Services Limited, Nana Bugyei pledged his support for the completion of the project.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith