Ghana has taken a major step in reviving its railway sector with the official launch of passenger operations on the Tema–Mpakadan line, promising commuters a faster, safer, and more affordable alternative to road travel.
The service, operated by the Ghana Railways Development Authority (GRDA), began on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, with a maiden trip from the Tema Harbour Railway Station to Afienya.
Maiden Journey
At exactly 9 a.m., the first Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) rolled out of the Tema Harbour station, making stops at the Tema Industrial Area and Ashaiman stations before arriving in Afienya at 9:39 a.m.
Passengers described the ride as smooth, efficient, and a welcome relief from the heavy traffic on the Accra–Tema motorway.
A Major Milestone for Transport
Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, who joined the maiden ride, hailed the launch as a “milestone in Ghana’s transport modernisation.”
According to him, the new service will:
- Ease congestion on major highways
- Reduce road accidents
- Cut the cost of doing business
- Provide reliable travel for commuters and cargo operators
“This railway line will not only ease road traffic but also create jobs, lower transport costs, and stimulate growth across the economy,” the minister said.
He added that the Tema–Mpakadan project is part of the government’s wider plan to expand rail services along the Western, Eastern, and Central corridors, with integration into regional trade routes.
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Competitive Fares
GRDA’s Managing Director, Dr Frederick Appoh, announced that fares have been set at accessible rates:
- Tema–Afienya → GH¢15
- Afienya–Adorme → GH¢25
- Full Tema–Adorme trip → GH¢40
He further revealed that the Accra–Tema line, suspended for repairs, will resume on Monday, October 6, 2025, enabling seamless passenger connection between Accra and Mpakadan.
Passengers React
Early riders praised the comfort and convenience of the service:
“This is a big relief. No more long hours in traffic. The fares are also fair,” added Emmanuel Amadoe.
“The ride was very smooth, and the coaches are neat. I hope regular maintenance is done to keep it safe,” said Mohammed Dawda, a passenger from Ashaiman.
Background
The 97-kilometre Tema–Mpakadan railway line was inaugurated in November 2024 by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. It forms part of Ghana’s rail revitalisation agenda, with long-term plans to connect the network to Volta Lake and extend services to Burkina Faso.
The line is expected to play a key role in transforming freight transport, cutting logistics costs, and boosting trade within Ghana and across West Africa.
