The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has cut sod for the commencement of phase two of the Tamale Airport Project to begin his two day tour of the Northern region.
The 30-month project which is being handled by QG Construction UK Limited, will lead to the elevation of the Airport to an International status.
It is estimated at about $70 million, with funds from the UK Export Finance and KFW IPEX Bank of Germany.
President Akufo-Addo said the Tamale Airport project forms part of government’s vision to expand the frontiers of the aviation industry, and make Ghana the aviation hub within the Sub-Region.
The second phase of the Tamale Airport project will comprise an Airport Terminal building designed to include VVIP lounges and three boarding gates.
The project will also have an ultra-modern Hajj terminal to take care of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, a single carriage way, aviation training center, water, power and sewerage infrastructure and extension of road network.
The Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari Mahama commended government for the numerous projects initiated in the region. He said the completion of the project will motivate farmers to put in their best as their produce will be transported on time. He pledged the support of the chiefs to the contractor for a successful completion of the project.
The Minister for Aviation, Kofi Adda, said his ministry will implement efficient infrastructure and smarter policies aimed at reducing the cost of air travel for business travellers and tourists and reduce aviation charges and taxes to improve the competitiveness of Ghana’s air transport sector.
President Nana-Addo said the project is expected to provide the needed impetus for increased economic and trading activities considering the vibrancy in Agricultural activities in the region. He said government intends to use the project to support the programs of the Northern development authority to harness agriculture produce.
He also charged the construction firm to complete in the schedule time to avoid cost over-run.
