Accra: President John Dramani Mahama on Saturday inspected the proposed site for the construction of the Upper West Regional Airport in Wa. This forms part of the President's two-day Resetting Ghana Tour of the Upper West Region. He explained that the old airport was merely an airstrip and no longer suitable for use, with past issues such as the Wa-Nadowli road crossing the runway, which was later diverted for safety improvements.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama emphasized that there had always been plans to build a new airport to serve Wa and the Upper West Region. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity and resources now available to turn this vision into reality. The President confirmed that the Ghana Airports Company had already secured the necessary funds for the project, eliminating the need for additional financing. He announced the completion of procurement and contractor selection, indicating that construction work on the new airport would commence soon.
President Mahama highlighted the objective of connecting all parts of Ghana through efficient domestic air travel. He pointed out that the journey from Wa to Accra, which currently takes nine to ten hours by road, could be reduced to approximately one hour and fifteen minutes by air. This improvement would facilitate easier travel, business operations, and reduce time spent on the road.
Addressing concerns about the airport's location being farther from Wa, President Mahama urged consideration for future development. He likened the situation to Accra International Airport, which was once surrounded by bushland but is now encircled by development. He expressed confidence that the proposed airport would stimulate growth and expansion in Wa.
President Mahama promised that the new airport would be equipped with modern navigational facilities and runway lighting for safe aircraft landings during day and night. He looked forward to returning for the sod-cutting ceremony once the contractor mobilizes and commences work.