Mahama unveils major infrastructure push for Kwahu, including new airport and Convention Centre

President John Dramani Mahama has announced ambitious plans to construct an airport and a permanent convention and exhibition centre in Kwahu, transforming the annual Easter business forum into a major hub for investment and enterprise development.

Speaking on the second day of the 2026 Kwahu Easter Business Forum on April 4, the President outlined a broader strategy to expand opportunities for local businesses and deepen private sector participation in the economy.

“We are thinking of a permanent convention centre, and ultimately, we want to have an airport here so that flights can come in, both domestically and for people coming from outside,” President Mahama stated.

He noted that the government is already engaging private partners for the conference facility, alongside improvements to road infrastructure aimed at easing congestion during the Easter festivities.

President Mahama highlighted significant improvements in Ghana’s business environment over the past year, citing declining interest rates, easing inflation, and relative currency stability. He noted that borrowing costs, which hovered around 32 per cent in 2024, have dropped considerably, with some businesses now accessing credit at between nine and 10 per cent.

“Banks now are holding huge liquidities, and they must find somebody to lend it to, because the government will not take it,” he said, adding that reduced government borrowing has freed up liquidity within the banking sector.

The President also outlined incentives under the government’s 24-hour economy policy, including duty-free importation of plant and machinery for registered firms and expedited port clearance within 24 hours. He explained that Parliament would approve the final package of exemptions and waivers.

On local enterprise development, President Mahama raised concerns about structural weaknesses within Ghanaian businesses, particularly the lack of succession planning. He warned that many firms collapse after the death of their founders due to disputes and inadequate planning, urging business owners to prepare successors early.

Addressing concerns about the business environment, the President cautioned against political victimisation of private companies, stressing that access to state contracts should be based on competence rather than political affiliation.

He further highlighted the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure programme, describing it as the largest road investment drive in the country’s history, covering more than 2,000 kilometres.

On the energy front, the President said the government has made progress in addressing legacy debts in the power sector, including ongoing negotiations with independent power producers to restructure about $1.7 billion in outstanding obligations.

President Mahama expressed optimism that the Kwahu Business Forum would continue to grow into a permanent fixture on Ghana’s economic calendar, supported by sustained macroeconomic stability, improved access to credit, and reforms to strengthen local enterprises.