The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has officially relaunched the passenger rail services on the Takoradi-Kojokrom-Sekondi line in the Western Region, restoring a key transport link after years of inactivity.
The resumption is expected to improve mobility for commuters, ease pressure on road transport, and support economic activities within the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis and surrounding areas.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister said the move forms part of the government’s broader agenda to revitalise the rail sector and strengthen national transport infrastructure.
“You cannot have a well-functioning economy without an efficient transport system. That is why the government remains committed to revamping the rail sector,” he stated.
He noted that the restored service aligns with a long-term vision to modernise Ghana’s railway network, originally initiated in 2012 and commissioned in 2016.
Addressing operational challenges, the Minister disclosed that a substantial portion of outstanding salary arrears inherited by the current administration has been paid, with the remainder expected to be cleared by the end of the month to improve staff morale and service delivery.
Hon. Nikpe further outlined plans to extend rail connectivity to mining areas to facilitate the movement of bulk cargo to the ports, a strategy aimed at boosting revenue generation and ensuring the sustainability of the sector. He added that ongoing negotiations have secured an additional eight kilometres of rail line extension at no cost to the State.
On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA), Dr. Frederick Appoh, described the resumption as the result of deliberate efforts to restore a safe, efficient, and affordable mode of transport.
“This milestone reflects disciplined work and dedication to restoring rail services to the people of the Western Region,” he said.
He added that the reactivation followed extensive technical works, including track repairs, turnout reinstatement, vegetation clearance, desilting, and the rehabilitation of stations, among others.
He encouraged the people to see the trains as theirs and own them. He urged them to keep the trains clean after boarding and make sure the stations were always clean.
The Member of Parliament for Essikadu-Ketan and Deputy Minister for Health, Grace Ayensu-Danquah, welcomed the development, noting that the restored rail service was expected to create employment, opportunities and stimulate social and economic activity in the area.
The Paramount Chief (Omanhen) of the Essikadu Traditional Area, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, commended the government for restoring the service and urged residents to protect the railway infrastructure. He also appealed for improved working conditions for railway staff across the country.
The relaunch builds on ongoing progress in the rail sector, including operations on the Tema–Mpakadan line, which currently transports about 6,500 passengers weekly. Similar assessments are expected to be conducted later to determine the patronage level on the Takoradi–Kojokrom–Sekondi route.
The restored service is expected to provide a faster and more reliable transport option, reduce congestion on roads, and enhance connectivity across the Western Region
