Accra, Ghana’s bustling capital, faces mounting pressures from rapid urbanization, traffic gridlock, and strained infrastructure. Recognizing these challenges, then-President John Dramani Mahama launched feasibility studies for a new national capital, a bold initiative aimed at decongesting Accra and spurring broader national development. The vision, articulated in his address at Dodowa, outlines a future where a modern, strategically located capital alleviates the burdens on Accra and unlocks new economic potential. This article delves into the impetus behind this ambitious project, the proposed location for the new capital, and its potential transformative impact on Ghana.

The need for a new national capital stems from the increasing strain on Accra’s resources. As President Mahama noted, the city’s growth has led to significant congestion and inadequate infrastructure. The concept of a new capital is not just about relocating administrative functions; it’s about creating a secondary administrative and commercial hub that can absorb future growth and ease the burden on the existing capital. The proposed **feasibility studies** are a crucial first step in determining the viability and scope of this transformative project.

The envisioned city is planned for the Accra plains, a geographically strategic area spanning the Greater Accra, Eastern, and Volta regions. The proposed location, stretching to the banks of the Volta River, is intended to enhance connectivity across multiple regions. “I believe that this city will be located somewhere on the Accra plains from Bundase, straddling across the Greater Accra, Eastern and Volta regions. The city will straddle three regions,” President Mahama stated. This strategic positioning aims to facilitate economic activity and development across a wider geographical area.

To ensure seamless connectivity, plans include a railway link and expressway connecting the new city to Accra. This infrastructure will be vital in integrating the new capital into the existing economic framework. Beyond transportation, the new capital is envisioned as a green, digital metropolis, incorporating industrial parks, financial services, and tourist attractions. The aspiration is to create a vibrant 24-hour economy, maximizing productivity and offering a range of economic opportunities for residents and businesses alike.

In tandem with the new capital initiative, efforts are also underway to upgrade existing healthcare facilities. The Greater Accra Regional Hospital, also known as Ridge Hospital, is slated to be upgraded into a full-fledged Teaching Hospital. “We will also construct Ridge Hospital Phase Two, which will increase the capacity of that hospital as a teaching hospital in the Greater Accra Region,” President Mahama announced. This upgrade will enhance specialist training and reduce the need for patients to seek medical care outside the region. Furthermore, plans are in place to expand Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHIPS) compounds in peri-urban communities such as Bortianor, Kpone, and Shai Osu-Doku, extending healthcare access to underserved populations.

Recognizing the importance of security in fostering a thriving economy, the government is also focusing on enhancing security measures across Greater Accra. A key component of this effort is the mass distribution and installation of streetlights in all districts, aimed at improving safety and facilitating a 24-hour economy. These measures are designed to create a more secure environment for businesses and residents alike.

Road infrastructure development is another critical aspect of the broader development plan for Greater Accra. Priority road projects include the rehabilitation of major corridors, the expansion of existing roads, and the construction of an outer Ring Road designed to bypass Accra. “And so it means trucks and others coming from Lome and going to Kumasi or Takoradi don’t need to come through Accra; they’ll pass on the Outer Ring Road and continue their journey,” President Mahama explained. Specific projects include the Adenta-Dodowa Road, La-Teshie Link, Tema Harbour-Tema General Hospital-Motorway Road, and Tema Motorway Expansion, all aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing congestion.

The Nungua Mantse and President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, Oboade Notse King Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, expressed strong confidence in President Mahama’s ‘Reset Ghana’ agenda. This endorsement underscores the positive reception of the initiative among key stakeholders, highlighting the collaborative spirit driving the project forward.

The **feasibility studies** for a new national capital represent a significant step towards addressing the challenges of urbanization and congestion in Accra. The proposed location, infrastructure plans, and related healthcare and road development projects reflect a comprehensive vision for Ghana’s future. As these studies progress, the potential for a green, digital metropolis to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life remains a central focus. This initiative has the potential to reshape Ghana’s administrative and economic landscape for generations to come.