Lieutenant General William Agyapong, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), has made a working visit to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) engineers who are clearing land for the government’s Accra-Kumasi Expressway project. The team is operating from their campsite in Asuboa, near Akim Oda in the Eastern Region, where they are clearing green fields within the designated corridors of the expressway.
The purpose of the visit was to assess the operational progress and ensure that the ongoing activities are in line with established timelines. During the briefing with the CDS, Project Engineer Major Evans Biney explained that the mission involves clearing the right-of-way within a designated 175.6-kilometre corridor.
He emphasised that this land clearing, along with other supporting tasks, is a critical phase of the project that aims to enhance its feasibility and assist in both initial and detailed engineering design studies. Major Biney further explained that four work gangs are expected to undertake the task along the entire length of the corridor, working day and night.
As of the time of visit, 17.75km had been cleared during the mobilisation phase. He assured the CDS that with funding secured and most equipment on-site, clearing would be completed within the 20-week timeline, effective April 23, 2026. However, Maj Biney pointed out that heavy rains, dense vegetation, limited night visibility, and the lengthy compensation valuation process are key challenges that could slow progress.
Despite these anticipated hurdles, he remained optimistic about meeting the deadline. Project Coordinator Major Edem Anku noted that all administrative and logistical requirements are in place for the project’s smooth delivery, adding that troops are well-poised for the task. He stated that the project team has maintained constructive dialogue with traditional authorities in Asuboa and surrounding areas, fostering a cordial working relationship.
Additionally, he disclosed that, as part of civil-military cooperation, local arrangements are underway to engage youth in the catchment area for minor site roles and administrative support as needed. The CDS toured two sites to assess progress and engage with troops on the ground. He commended personnel for their dedication, urging them to sustain momentum to ensure timely completion.
He reiterated the project’s strategic importance, noting that history will remember the gallant role GAF played in supporting this critical national development. He also interacted with residents affected by the project, assuring them of the government’s commitment to fair compensation.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) was accompanied by staff officers from General Headquarters and the Commanding Officer of the Jungle Warfare School in Achiase, Lieutenant Colonel Speratus Anglaamwine Baninyeni. The Accra-Kumasi Expressway is designed to connect the Greater Accra, Eastern, and Ashanti Regions by passing through key communities, including Ablekuma, Adiembra, Adeiso, Asamankese, Anamase, Akim Oda, Ofoase Ayirebi, Enikawkaw, Gyadamua, Asante Achiase, Kwaso, and Sawua. Source: Ghana Armed Forces.
Source: Raphael Ghartey
