Ghana Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe has announced the imminent launch of a new marine transport service set to link Ghana to other West African coastal states.
This service offers passengers and cargo a sea-based alternative to congested road travel.
Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV on Monday, the Saboba MP revealed that an investor has secured two large vessels to operate along the coast from Ghana through Togo and Benin to Nigeria.
“Currently, I am happy as a Minister to say that we have had an investor who has brought in two ships, bigger vessels that will soon start operations from the coast through to Nigeria,” he said.
“He will now be taking passengers and cargo from Ghana through Togo, Benin, to Nigeria.”
The Minister said the new service is expected to significantly reduce pressure on key road networks, particularly the heavily used Volta corridor linking Ghana to Benin.
“We believe that will ease the congestion on the Volta route to Benin. It is going to take from Accra through Lomé, through Cotonou, and then finally by sea, goods and human beings,” he stated.
Nikpe noted that the coastal marine service would provide a safer and more efficient option for travellers and transporters who endure long and exhausting road journeys across the sub-region.
“If you have your vehicle, you wouldn’t want to spend any time on the roads,” he added.
He disclosed that preparations are well advanced, with commercial operations expected to begin early next year.
“By February 2026, it should start operations because it is far gone,” the Minister said, signalling a major shift in regional transport connectivity along the West African coast.
Source: Myjoyonline.com
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