The Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye, has officially commissioned the newly constructed Flowerpot Interchange, marking a significant advancement in Ghana’s urban road infrastructure.
The state-of-the-art facility aims to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance mobility, and stimulate economic growth in the bustling Spintex Road area of Accra.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Minister emphasized the critical role the interchange will play in addressing long-standing traffic challenges in the area.
“The Flowerpot Interchange is a comprehensive solution to the congestion that has plagued this location for years. This infrastructure greatly enhances mobility and improves the quality of life for residents and travellers alike,” the Minister stated.
The interchange, spanning from the Palace Mall intersection to East Legon’s Boundary Road, features innovative elements including a continuous viaduct, ramps for seamless connectivity, and walkways with cycling lanes.
Hon. Asenso-Boakye traced the history of the project, highlighting its evolution since sod-cutting in 2016.
He explained, “Originally planned as two overpasses, the design has been ingeniously expanded to include a continuous viaduct, new roads through East Legon, and enhanced connections to key areas such as Cantonments and Spintex.
Beyond enhancing mobility, these facilities were strategically designed to support local businesses and generate employment opportunities. The Flowerpot Interchange will enable seamless connectivity between key areas—such as Osu, La, Cantonments, Tse Addo, East Airport, Ledzokuku, East Legon, Adjiringanor, Adentan, and Madina—thereby stimulating economic activities and providing safer routes for commuters.
The Minister praised the collaboration between the Ghana government, Afrexim Bank, and Messrs. China Railway No. 5 Engineering GH. Limited and local contractors in delivering the project to the “highest standards and specifications.”
The interchange boasts several cutting-edge features: An 802-meter viaduct ensuring smooth traffic flow; Two roundabouts with fountains and public art celebrating Ghanaian culture; Dedicated urban spaces with seating areas, murals, and recreational facilities, including basketball courts and a football pitch; a 100-car parking area under the viaduct to support local activities.
“This project goes beyond enhancing mobility; it enriches community life and provides facilities to support businesses and recreation,” the Minister noted.
Hon. Asenso-Boakye also acknowledged public frustration over stalled projects like the Tema-Aflao Road due to delays linked to Ghana’s debt exchange program.
“We fully share the public’s concerns and have activated maintenance systems to provide immediate relief.”
“For the Tema-Aflao Road, targeted interventions will be undertaken in the coming days to ease commuter challenges,” he assured.
He called on Ghanaians to exercise patience as the government works with development partners to complete critical road projects across the country.
The Minister urged the Advertising Association of Ghana and municipal authorities to curb unauthorized advertisements on public road infrastructure.
These practices, he said, compromise road safety and diminish the aesthetic value of public spaces and urged the relevant bodies to enforce regulations and preserve the integrity of Ghana’s roads.
Hon. Asenso-Boakye also urged Ghanaians to take pride in the Flowerpot Interchange stating, “This state-of-the-art interchange is built for you. Let us maintain it responsibly and use it safely. Together, we can ensure its legacy endures for generations.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, other government officials, and local dignitaries joined in celebrating this milestone, which underscores Ghana’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and boosting economic growth.