Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Hisanobu Mochizuki, has reiterated Japan’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ghana’s efforts in advancing its socio-economic and infrastructure development.
The ambassador emphasized that Ghana occupies a strategically significant position in the West Africa Growth Ring Corridor Development, which aims to foster enhanced connectivity and stimulate economic activities within the sub-region. Japan recognizes the importance of quality infrastructure in achieving these objectives and remains dedicated to assisting Ghana in this endeavor.
“Japan as a nation is aware of the value of creating a solid infrastructure base and the role it can play in boosting and stimulating economies.
“This strengthens our resolve to help our colleagues in Africa develop their infrastructure to transform their economies,” the Ambassador assured.
During the commissioning ceremony of the Assin-Fosu to Assin-Praso phase two road project in the Assin North District of the Central Region, Mr. Hisanobu Mochizuki, the Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, conveyed a statement on his behalf, underscoring Japan’s support for Ghana’s infrastructure development.
The construction of the 31.2 km national trunk road (N8) was made possible through a grant from the Japanese government and executed by Shimizu Dai Nippon Joint Ventures, a prominent Japanese Construction Firm.
Mr. Mochizuki emphasized that the Japanese government’s commitment to quality infrastructure development was aimed at bolstering the foundation of Ghana’s industrial growth, with a focus on sectors such as agriculture, health, and human resource development.
He highlighted the significance of transportation infrastructure in driving economic growth, attracting business and investment in Ghana. Without adequate transportation networks, he pointed out that the value of products and services would be diminished.
Furthermore, Mr. Mochizuki expressed his belief that improving transportation connectivity through well-constructed roads would open up economic opportunities for underserved communities and promote inclusive economic growth.
He also mentioned that Japan’s commitment to development assistance was further strengthened by a recent visit to Ghana by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, with the aim of deepening bilateral relations and fostering mutual gains between the two countries.
The Japanese Government attached great significance to the promotion of business and investment in Ghana as a leading economic powerhouse in West Africa.
“For instance, it is impossible to underline enough how strategically located this N8 highway is.
“I am confident that the massive opportunities that these rehabilitation efforts of the N8 would bring to Ghana will be realized because it is a crucial corridor for the transportation of essential export commodities,” the Ambassador noted.
To the people in the area, he said the road would undoubtedly reduce traffic, particularly on market days, and create more commercial opportunities in the surrounding communities.
Notwithstanding, he recognized the contributions of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for being a key conduit for the Japanese government’s strategic and all-encompassing approach to supporting Ghana’s infrastructure development.
Through JICA, Ghana has benefited from infrastructure projects, including the high-quality Phase One of the Tema Motorway roundabout project officially opened by President Akufo-Addo in 2020.
The sod-cutting by the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the commencement of Phase Two of the project which is scheduled for completion in December 2024.
Again, through the efforts of JICA, he said the Phase One Project of the NS between Assin-Praso and Asante-Bekwai was completed in December 2013.