John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has announced plans to conduct a comprehensive audit of the Keta Port project if he wins the upcoming election. Speaking to the media in Ho, Volta Region, Mahama emphasized the need for a thorough assessment of the project’s progress under the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.
The audit, Mahama explained, will help determine the way forward for the project and ensure that it does not become a “white elephant” like the Boankra inland port. Mahama stressed that a thorough needs assessment is crucial before establishing a new port between Tema Harbour and the Port of Lomé.
He highlighted the importance of avoiding past mistakes and ensuring that the Keta Port project serves a specific purpose, given the presence of two major ports in the region. Mahama questioned the rationale behind building an intermediate port that would handle the same cargo as Tema and Lomé.
He called for transparency and accountability, urging the government to release the feasibility study and design plans for the port. Mahama promised to prioritize the audit and make the findings public, allowing for informed decision-making.
He expressed concern that the project might be driven by political interests rather than a genuine need for a new port. By conducting a comprehensive audit, Mahama aims to ensure that the Keta Port project benefits the people of Ghana and does not become a wasteful expenditure.