President John Dramani Mahama has inspected the proposed site for the Upper East Airport, assuring residents that preparations are advancing towards the start of construction.
Speaking during the inspection on Thursday, President Mahama said the government hoped to return to the region before the end of the year to cut the sod for the project.
He thanked traditional rulers for donating land for the airport, describing the project as more than an aviation facility.
Airport to anchor new city
President Mahama said the government intends to develop a city around the Upper East Airport to create new economic opportunities and stimulate business activity.
The airport, he said, would also address the difficulties residents face when travelling by air.
Passengers from the region currently travel about 160 kilometres to Tamale before connecting to flights to Accra. The same journey is required on their return.
The President said the new facility would eliminate that burden by allowing residents to fly directly between the Upper East Region and Accra.
Boost for mining and investment
The project is also expected to have implications for the region’s mining industry.
President Mahama said gold mining companies could use the airport to transport bullion to Accra more conveniently, reducing their reliance on bullion vans and chartered helicopters.
He also expects improved air connectivity to make the Upper East Region more attractive to investors.
Business owners and potential investors, he said, would find it easier to travel between the region and Accra, potentially supporting increased commercial activity.
100,000 passenger capacity
The Upper East Airport is expected to begin operations with an initial capacity of 100,000 passengers, with provision for expansion as demand grows.
The contractual completion period has been set at 24 months. President Mahama said contractors had indicated that they could finish the project ahead of schedule.
He added that the government is also pursuing airport projects in Wa and Sunyani as part of efforts to expand air transport infrastructure beyond Accra and Kumasi.
The procurement process for the Upper East Airport is being closely monitored, according to the President.
“Contractors would soon be seen on site,” he said, signalling that the project has moved beyond planning towards physical implementation.
For the Upper East Region, the airport is being presented not simply as a transport project, but as a potential centre for commerce, mining logistics, investment and urban development.
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