President Akufo-Addo has declared that Ghana's aviation sector has successfully rebounded from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The President’s declaration is based on the significant increase in air passenger traffic, both domestically and internationally.
The President made this known on Friday, May 10, during the commissioning of the Nana Agyemang Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi where he was joined by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and other dignitaries.
Acknowledging the widespread negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on various sectors of the Ghanaian economy, President Akufo-Addo emphasised that the aviation sector was not spared from these challenges.
In light of the sector's successful recovery, the President called upon all stakeholders to collaborate and redouble their efforts to maximize the benefits of this rebound for the country's overall development.
He urged concerted action and collective commitment to ensure that Ghana's aviation sector continues to thrive and contribute significantly to the nation's economic growth and prosperity.
“Ghana has experienced a considerable overall growth in air passenger traffic onboard domestic and international routes. At the end of 2023, international passenger traffic comprised 2,914,661 persons compared to the 2019 through port of 2,328,758 persons representing a 25% increase. Domestic passenger traffic on its part increased from 690,314 persons in 2019 to 775,662 persons at the end of 2023."
“This data means that the aviation sector has recovered fully from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and is back on track for growth. My government will continue to pay the needed attention to enable the sector to compete fairly with our neighbouring countries in the West African region and beyond.
“It is therefore important that all stakeholders come onboard and play their respective roles towards making Ghana an aviation hub in the region,” President Akufo-Addo said.
Later this year, the Kumasi airport will begin full operations following its commissioning, allowing for the expansion of the runway and the dismantling of old facilities.
Under the management of the Ghana Airport Company Limited, the facility is currently undergoing equipment testing necessary for both domestic and international flights.
With a capacity to accommodate over eight hundred thousand passengers annually, the airport primarily serves travelers from the northern and middle belt regions, aiming to meet the growing demand for air travel.
Credit: Ernest K Arhinful