Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reiterated its dedication to the development of the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Project, a significant regional endeavor designed to enhance integration and stimulate economic growth in West Africa.
Despite encountering numerous obstacles such as terrorism, violent extremism, piracy, political unrest, election-related violence, drug trafficking, and public health challenges, ECOWAS remains steadfast in its mission to foster cooperation and unity throughout the region.
In line with its objective to create a cohesive economic union and elevate living standards, ECOWAS has initiated the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Project, which is anticipated to yield substantial national and regional advantages, acting as a catalyst for development.
The ongoing economic integration in Africa is significantly hindered by critical deficiencies in transport infrastructure.
To address this issue, the ECOWAS Vision 2050 agenda emphasizes infrastructure development as a vital component for economic advancement and regional cohesion.
The highway corridor represents a strategic initiative aimed at establishing a regional framework that promotes the unrestricted movement of individuals and goods.
Spanning 1,028 kilometers, the highway will link key cities and pass through regions with considerable economic potential, which constitutes roughly 75% of West Africa’s trade volume.
During a media event in Accra, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Kwame Agbodza, characterized the project as a “historic milestone in our collective endeavor to transform the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor into a modern, efficient six-lane dual carriageway with supporting infrastructure.
“President John Dramani Mahama has also reaffirmed his strong commitment to the project, highlighting its strategic importance for Ghana’s national development and the prosperity of West Africa”.
Hon. Agbodza further emphasized the necessity of environmental sustainability and the importance of providing equitable compensation to property owners impacted by the project’s alignment.
The Honorable Agbodza emphasized the critical need for environmental sustainability and the necessity of providing equitable compensation to property owners impacted by the project’s alignment.
Addressing the media, the Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Alhassan Suhuyini, discussed the historical and current significance of the initiative, connecting it to the overarching vision of African unity and infrastructure development advocated by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
He remarked, ‘The dialogue surrounding this project is fundamentally intertwined with our pan-African aspirations.
From the initial endorsement by President Mills to the ongoing commitment of President Mahama, this corridor is essential for enhancing trade and fostering regional integration.’
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
