Japan to deepen partnership with Ghana… as it marks 70th anniversary next year

The Ambassador of Japan to Ghana, Mr. Yoshimoto Hiroshi, has stated that Japan will continue to support Ghana's sustainable economic and social development as the two nations mark their 70th partnership anniversary next year. The focus of this collaboration will be on infrastructure development, industrial and agricultural development, as well as health and human resource development.

Mr. Hiroshi hinted at the continued exploration of ways to strengthen the partnership between Japan and Ghana, emphasizing that Japan's investments over the years have been diverse and aimed at improving the lives of Ghanaians.

In northern Ghana, Japan is implementing projects that contribute to improving people's livelihoods and promoting regional economic development. These initiatives include a more stable electricity supply, better access to healthcare services, and improved basic social services like education and health facilities. Looking ahead, Mr. Hiroshi mentioned that Japan would consider areas of cooperation based on continued dialogue with the Ghanaian government, utilizing Japan's knowledge, experience, and strengths.

Among the health, education, and road projects undertaken in Ghana by the Japanese government, some have already been completed and put to use, while others are at various stages of completion. A notable example is the JPY 1.992 billion project for power supply stabilization in Tamale, which started in 2026 and is expected to be completed in July 2028.

This project aims to improve electricity stability, thereby strengthening socio-economic activities and daily life in northern Ghana. Another project is the JPY 3.113 billion Project for the Improvement of the Healthcare System in the Northern Region, which involves reconstructing and expanding facilities at Tamale Central Hospital and providing medical equipment.

This project, expected to be completed in May 2028, will also provide medical equipment for maternal and child health and emergency care at three district hospitals in Saboba, Bimbilla, and Kpandai.

The Inner Ring Road/Smart Traffic Lights project in Kumasi is another initiative under Japan's support. This project will convert major roundabouts at Santasi and Ahodwo on Kumasi's Inner Ring Road into signal-controlled, at-grade intersections, fitted with smart traffic signals to enhance traffic flow and road safety. Additionally, Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGGP) is constructing a new school block in Kumasi, featuring six classrooms, a headteacher's office, a staff room, storage rooms, an outdoor toilet facility, and a borehole.

This facility, designed to accommodate 270 pupils upon completion in December 2026, represents Japan's commitment to improving education in Ghana.

Lastly, the Volivo new bridge project, connecting Tema Port with Kulungungu on the border with Burkina Faso, is still in the procurement phase due to increased project costs and fiscal circumstances. However, a re-tendering process is underway, with the aim of concluding the agreement in early 2027 and commencing construction promptly thereafter.