President Mahama urges Czech firms to invest in Accra-Kumasi rail link under $10bn Big Push

President John Dramani Mahama has appealed to Czech businesses to partner with Ghana in developing tram and light rail systems for Accra and Kumasi, as part of his government’s $10 billion “Big Push” infrastructure programme.

Addressing the Czech-Ghana Business Cooperation Seminar in Accra on Tuesday, April 9 2025, President Mahama said the proposed transport systems would ease pressure on urban mobility and support trade within Ghana and across the continent, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“As a proud host of the AfCFTA Secretariat, Ghana is strengthening its multimodal infrastructure to support local and intra-African trade,” Mr Mahama said.

“Czech companies with expertise in integrated transport systems, including tram and light rail networks, can play an important role in this effort.”

He said the government’s “Big Push” programme seeks to open up Ghana through large-scale investment in infrastructure to tackle urban congestion, boost productivity and expand economic opportunities.

Mr Mahama also identified areas beyond transport where Czech firms could partner Ghanaian counterparts, including digital technology, health services, manufacturing and sanitation. 

He noted Czech strengths in medical equipment production, financial technology and cybersecurity could support Ghana’s development drive.

“Our government is working to move beyond raw material exports by building value-added industries. Czech expertise can support this ambition, especially in food processing, mineral refinement, pharmaceutical production and light manufacturing,” he said.

The President acknowledged ongoing Czech support in Ghana’s health sector, including financial backing for the Kpong Mini Hospital, which he said would be inaugurated later in the day.

He said Czech investors were welcome to explore opportunities in hospitality, sanitation, and Ghana’s growing real estate sector, stressing that efforts were underway to make doing business easier and more transparent.

“We are reforming our regulatory systems to attract more investment,” Mr Mahama told the gathering. “Our investment promotion agencies are ready to support Czech companies that wish to explore the Ghanaian market.”

Mr Mahama also announced that a Ghana-Czech Trade and Investment Forum will be held in Prague later this year, and that a revised draft of a Memorandum of Understanding on Trade Cooperation has been submitted by Ghana and is expected to be finalised before the end of the year.

He urged business leaders from both countries to use the seminar as a platform to build strong commercial ties.

“This visit opens a new chapter in our relations. Let us work together to create mutual growth and prosperity,” Mr Mahama said.