The Northern Regional Capital, Tamale, witnessed a significant milestone as Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia officially inaugurated the second phase of the development project at the Tamale International Airport (TIA) in a ceremony on Tuesday.
The expansion project has elevated the airport to international status, allowing it to accommodate international air travelers.
The inauguration followed successful tests and simulation exercises conducted by the Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL).
The $70 million expansion project included the construction of a new terminal building and various supporting facilities such as a VIP lounge, boarding gates, self-service check-in kiosks, check-in desks, airline offices, commercial retail areas, and a terminal designated for Hajj travel facilitation.
Additionally, a five-kilometer road network, a 350-capacity car park, and technical infrastructure for water supply, firefighting, and sewage treatment were added.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia highlighted that the new terminal is designed to handle a passenger throughput of 400,000 annually. He emphasized that this expansion will enable numerous airlines to operate direct flights from Tamale to various parts of the world.
He further noted that this project aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance the aviation industry’s infrastructure, attract foreign investments, and establish Ghana as an aviation hub in West Africa.
Dr Bawumia emphasized the significance of the Tamale International Airport in boosting agricultural exports, particularly given the North’s role in agro-based agriculture. The upgraded airport is poised to become a major hub for air cargo transportation of agricultural produce to Europe and other destinations.
Additionally, the Vice President pointed out that the new terminal’s facilities will positively impact the annual Hajj Pilgrimage, accommodating more aircraft for international travel.
Promoting International Trade and Tourism
Transport Minister Kwaku Ofori Asiamah highlighted the Tamale International Airport’s role as a gateway for promoting international trade, tourism, and culture. He encouraged domestic airlines to increase their frequencies to better serve the traveling public and urged international airlines to consider extending their services to the region.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure across all regions of the country, underscoring the progress made in the sector over the past six years.
Investment Opportunities and Development
Northern Regional Minister Shani Alhassan Shaibu commended the government for prioritizing the development of the region and the entire northern part of Ghana through the Tamale Airport expansion. He called on investors to explore the various investment opportunities in the region, with the potential to create jobs for the local youth and foster economic growth.
Background of the Project
The second phase of the Tamale Airport’s rehabilitation project was initiated on August 15, 2019, with the support of a United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) facility and KFW IPEC-Bank. The project was expected to be completed within 30 months.
The project’s scope encompassed the construction of a modular airport terminal building, a Hajj facility, access roads, infrastructure for utilities, and various amenities to enhance traveler experience and operational efficiency.
With the completion of the second phase, the Tamale International Airport is poised to play a crucial role in expanding Ghana’s aviation network and facilitating international travel and trade.
