Ofankor-Nsawam road project nears completion, set to ease Accra-Northern corridor traffic

Work on the critical 33.4-kilometre Ofankor-Nsawam road project is advancing steadily, with the contractor expressing confidence that the newly revised July 2026 completion deadline will be met.

An inspection of the site by the Ghanaian Times revealed that approximately 80 per cent of the overall scope has been completed. Large stretches of the dual carriageway have been asphalted, while the majority of storm drains and gutters are now in place.

The project, a key component of the National Route Six (N6) that links Accra to the northern regions and serves as a vital international transit route to the Sahel, involves the construction of four major interchanges at Amasaman, Pobiman, Medie, and the Nsawam Junction. Additionally, several flyovers, footbridges, and service roads are at advanced stages of completion.

The Resident Engineer, Mr. David-Thomas Arthur, provided an update during the site visit, stating that momentum has significantly increased following the release of funds. “Work is progressing steadily, and we are on course to meet the revised schedule,” Mr. Arthur assured. “The contractor has deployed additional resources to ensure all outstanding works are executed within the stipulated time frame.”

Construction began in July 2022 with an initial estimated cost of $346.5 million and an original deadline of July 2024. However, the timeline was first revised to May 2025 and then extended to July 2026 due to several setbacks, including protracted court cases over compensation, right-of-way disputes, and the relocation of utility lines, which stalled progress at various points.

Work resumed in earnest in August 2025 after the government released $77 million to the main contractor, Meripoma Enterprise Limited, to accelerate construction. Since then, activity has intensified across multiple sections of the corridor.

During the tour, workers and heavy-duty equipment were observed operating on various portions of the stretch. Some completed sections have already been marked with road signs and lane demarcations, while asphalt works continue on others.

Addressing immediate concerns from motorists, Mr. Arthur noted that the contractor has been directed to patch potholes on the unfinished sections to improve drivability. He also assured residents that water is being sprinkled regularly to control dust and minimize inconvenience.

Upon completion, the upgraded road is expected to drastically reduce travel time, enhance safety, and improve the smooth flow of goods and services. It is anticipated to be a major boost to trade and economic activities, both domestically and with neighboring countries.