By Gloria Anderson
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has successfully completed the second phase of the Tema Motorway Roundabout Project, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to improve road transport infrastructure. A three-day JICA media tour, which concluded at the newly completed overhead interchange, highlighted Japan’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s economic development through quality infrastructure projects.
At the project site, Project Manager Satoshi Yamamoto announced that the overhead interchange had been officially handed over to the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) on February 20, 2025, and is currently in its one-year monitoring phase.
“Safety is very important now that our work is complete. We are currently in the monitoring stage to assess any potential effects,” Mr. Yamamoto explained.
The project is part of Japan’s broader intervention in economic infrastructure development, focusing on improving road transport and electricity supply—two key areas necessary for boosting Ghana’s economy. With over 90% of total passenger and freight traffic in Ghana dependent on road transport, the need for upgraded and well-maintained roads remains critical.
Beyond roads, Ghana continues to face challenges in the energy sector, including supply deficits, transmission losses, and distribution inefficiencies. As part of its intervention, JICA aims to enhance international corridors, including transmission lines, road networks, and port development, to position Ghana as a transportation hub in West Africa.
JICA’s Principal Program Specialist in Charge of Planning, Mabe Biliwi Joshua, underscored the agency’s commitment to capacity building alongside infrastructure development.
“JICA has trained engineers from the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) and provided manuals to help maintain the project. Several training sessions have been organized for engineers from the Ministry of Roads and Highways, the GHA, the Department of Urban Roads, and the Feeder Roads Department. These efforts ensure sustainability beyond construction,” he stated.
In 2018, JICA supported the formulation of the West African Growth Ring (WAGRIC) Master Plan, which promotes regional economic integration through enhanced transport and energy infrastructure. The completion of the Tema Motorway Roundabout Phase Two aligns with this vision by reducing traffic congestion, improving safety, and supporting trade facilitation across the West African sub-region.
Drivers who use the interchange daily have expressed their gratitude, noting that the project has significantly reduced traffic congestion and made commuting easier.
“This road used to be a nightmare during peak hours, but now, driving is so much easier. We thank JICA and the Japanese Government for their intervention,” one driver said.
JICA has hinted at more infrastructure projects in the pipeline, reaffirming its long-term partnership with Ghana in addressing urbanization challenges such as traffic congestion, inadequate waste management, and unstable energy supply.
As JICA continues its developmental partnership with Ghana, the successful completion of the Tema Motorway Roundabout Phase Two stands as a testament to the impact of Japanese quality infrastructure in driving economic growth and regional connectivity.
