Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia led the inauguration of the Tamale International Airport.
The event marked the successful transition from the old terminal to the new one, signifying the terminal’s full operationalization.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted that this endeavour aligned with the government’s overarching goal to expand the horizons of the aviation sector, positioning Ghana as a hub for aviation in the West African sub-region.
The completion of Phase II of the Tamale International Airport project, alongside associated facilities, is anticipated to provide a significant boost to economic activities.
This development is set to support the Northern Development Authority’s initiatives in harnessing fresh agricultural produce for export, employment generation, and wealth creation.
Emphasising the strategic location of the airport within the Sahelien belt, Dr. Bawumia stressed its role in enhancing market access for local agricultural products, promoting tourism, and attracting passengers from neighbouring nations.
He expressed optimism that the project’s completion would encourage service providers to invest in ventures such as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), cargo facilities, and cold storage for storing and exporting fresh produce.
Dr. Bawumia also raised concerns about unauthorised encroachments on airport lands, underscoring the potential risks they pose to future expansion efforts.
He called for collaboration among relevant authorities to safeguard these lands for future expansion while ensuring the safety of lives and property.
In her remarks, Managing Director Madam Pamela Djamson-Tettey recounted the journey leading up to the commissioning.
She detailed the Operational Readiness and Transfer (ORAT) Phase, which encompassed equipment and system testing, personnel training, and the gradual shift of operations to the new terminal. This meticulous process aimed to minimise the risks associated with such transitions.
Madam Djamson-Tettey praised the dedication and resilience of the ORAT Team for ensuring a seamless migration of operations, acknowledging their pivotal role in the project’s success.
She reaffirmed the Ghana Airports Company Limited’s commitment to delivering top-tier facilities and services to all stakeholders, promising safe and secure airports that offer travellers a pleasant experience.
Phase II of the Tamale Airport Project, initiated in July 2019, encompassed the construction of a terminal building designed to accommodate an annual passenger throughput of 400,000.
Multi-purpose terminal and other ancillary facilities
The newly constructed terminal building boasts several noteworthy features, including a dedicated VIP lounge, two functional boarding gates, and a pair of self-service check-in kiosks. Accompanying these are eight efficient check-in desks, designated airline offices, and commercial retail spaces for added convenience.
Integral to the overall project design is the establishment of a brand-new 5-kilometer road network adjacent to the Tamale-Bolgatanga road.
This purposeful addition serves to ensure convenient and effortless access to the airport for travellers.
Furthermore, the versatile terminal, completed in 2022, played a vital role in accommodating Hajj pilgrims during their annual journey to Mecca in both 2022 and 2023.
The gradual development of the Tamale Airport aligns with a comprehensive strategy aimed at positioning the facility as a viable alternative to the Kotoka International Airport. Of particular significance is its capacity to handle emergency situations involving wide-body aircraft, reinforcing its crucial role within the aviation network.