Mr Francis Asenso-Boakye, Minister of Roads and Highways, has urged Turkish investors to prioritise Ghana as their investment destination.
Speaking at the 11th World Cooperation Industries (WCI) Forum held in Istanbul, Turkey, he highlighted Ghana’s immense potential for growth and strategic partnerships, with a particular focus on Ghana’s thriving infrastructure sector.
It was held on the theme: “Invest in Africa, Invest in the Future.”
Mr Asenso-Boakye emphasised the critical role of infrastructure, especially roads and highways, as the foundation for economic development.
He highlighted the 957-km-Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Project, which spans five West African countries—Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria – stating that more than 50 per cent of the highway was passing through Ghana.
The project offers vast opportunities for investments in manufacturing, tourism, technology and logistics.
“The Abidjan-Lagos Highway is more than just a road—it’s a catalyst for economic growth across the ECOWAS region,” he said.
“I therefore strongly urge Turkish investors to seize the opportunity to participate in this transformative project, which promises significant returns and enhances regional integration.”
Mr Asenso-Boakye also championed Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a key avenue for investment, citing Ghana’s pioneering PPP in the expansion of the Accra-Tema Motorway, as an example of the country’s commitment to infrastructure modernisation.
He encouraged investors to explore smart road technologies and green infrastructure, underscoring Ghana’s focus on sustainable development.
The Minister also participated in the International Road Federation (IRF) World Congress 2024, where he addressed a High-Level Ministerial Meeting on behalf of Ghana.
At the congress, themed: “Connecting to Empower Mobility: Roads as Enablers of a Sustainable Future”, discussions were focused on overcoming challenges and exploring innovative solutions in the roads and transportation sectors.
The Minister of Roads and Highways underscored Ghana’s significant progress in road infrastructure development, which, he said, had improved connectivity, reduced travel times, and enhanced access to essential services.
“These advancements have been pivotal in reducing poverty, raising incomes, and expanding access to healthcare and education,” he added.
On the sidelines of the IRF World Congress and the WCI Forum, the Minister held bilateral discussions with Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, Türkiye’s Minister for Transport and Infrastructure and Ömer Bolat, Minister for Trade.
Their talks focused on promoting trade and economic cooperation, particularly, in the construction sector, and positioning Ghana as the gateway to Africa.
GNA