Shama: President John Dramani Mahama has inaugurated the construction of a $250 million float glass manufacturing facility at Aboadze in the Shama District of the Western Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the first phase of the factory is set to produce 600 tons of glass per day, with the second phase adding another 800 tons, bringing the total production capacity to 1,400 tons daily. The project, which will occur in two phases, is expected to generate approximately 2,182 direct jobs. During the construction phase, 729 individuals will be employed, with 1,453 permanent operational jobs being created upon completion.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony, President Mahama emphasized that the initiative marks a significant shift in Ghana's economic policy from being a consumer and importer to a producer, processor, manufacturer, and exporter. He highlighted the global float glass market's annual value of around $60 billion, asserting that Ghana should not remain on the industry's margins. The $250 million investment is among the largest industrial investments in Ghana's history and aligns with the country's national industrial strategy and the objectives of the 24-hour economic program.
Mr. Shen Yanchang, Chairman of the Twyford Group, commended the Ghanaian government for its progress in enhancing macroeconomic stability. He noted that the 24-hour Economy Authority Law would facilitate continuous production, boost efficiency, and expand output, thereby increasing the global competitiveness of Ghanaian products. Twyford Group is among the first industries to expand into the overseas market in Africa, with operations in several countries including Ghana, Tanzania, Kenya, and Nigeria.
Mr. Lorry Li-Wei, Managing Director of KEDA Ghana Ceramics Ltd, indicated that the float glass factory aims to address the local glass production gap. He announced that phase one of the construction is expected to be completed by August next year. Upon completion, the facility is projected to create over 1,500 direct jobs and approximately 3,000 indirect jobs, significantly enhancing national revenue generation and increasing total employment to nearly 6,000.