Okatakyie Afrifa Questions Affordability of Mahama’s Proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway

Ghanaian media personality Okatakyie Afrifa has raised concerns about the affordability of the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway under President John Dramani Mahama, questioning whether ordinary Ghanaians will be able to bear the potential cost of using the major road project.

Afrifa reportedly described the proposed initiative as “nhwehweɛ animu,” expressing reservations about whether the project would ultimately serve the financial interests of ordinary citizens. His remarks have added to the public debate surrounding the planned expressway, particularly its projected cost, funding arrangements and the possibility of charges for motorists.

The proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway is expected to improve transportation between two of Ghana’s most important urban centres. Accra serves as the national capital and a major commercial hub, while Kumasi remains a significant centre for trade, manufacturing and business activities across the Ashanti Region and beyond.

A modern expressway connecting the two cities could help reduce travel times, improve the movement of goods and passengers, and support commercial activities along the corridor. Businesses that depend on the route for transporting products could also benefit from more efficient road infrastructure, provided the project is completed and managed effectively.

However, Afrifa’s criticism highlights a concern that frequently accompanies major infrastructure projects: whether the benefits of improved facilities will be accessible to the people who depend on them most.

One of the issues likely to attract considerable attention is the possibility of toll charges if such a payment system forms part of the project’s financing or maintenance arrangements. Although the details of any proposed toll structure have not been established in the information provided, the prospect raises questions about the cost motorists might face when travelling between Accra and Kumasi.

Commercial drivers, transport operators and private vehicle owners who regularly use the route could be particularly affected by any additional charges. For businesses, increased transportation expenses may influence operating costs and, potentially, the prices consumers pay for goods and services.

These concerns are especially relevant at a time when households and businesses remain sensitive to the cost of living and other financial pressures. Afrifa’s remarks have therefore drawn attention to the need for the government to explain how the project will be financed and whether its eventual operating arrangements could place an additional burden on road users.

Nevertheless, supporters of the proposed expressway may point to its potential long-term advantages. Better road infrastructure can improve connectivity, support economic activity, reduce delays and create opportunities for businesses operating along major transportation corridors.

The challenge for the government will be to balance these expected benefits against the financial implications of constructing and maintaining the road. Transparent procurement procedures, clear financing arrangements and a carefully considered toll policy, if applicable, would be important in assessing whether the project offers value for money.

The final construction cost, funding model, implementation timetable and any charges motorists may be required to pay will be central to the public debate as further information becomes available.

Ultimately, Afrifa’s criticism raises a question that extends beyond the construction of a single highway: how can Ghana pursue ambitious infrastructure development while ensuring that ordinary citizens can afford to benefit from it?

The government’s ability to address these concerns through clear information and practical measures could influence public confidence in the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway.

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