President Akufo-Addo (3rd L), admiring the plaque with Francis Asenso-Boakye (2nd R) and Nii Afotey Agbo (R), Chief of Katamanso
President Nana Akufo-Addo yesterday commissioned the long-awaited Flower Pot Interchange constructed to revolutionise transportation and economic growth in the national capital, Accra.
The interchange, which links Spintex and East Legon, is expected to enhance connectivity, reduce travel times, and increase trade opportunities in the city.
The two-tier infrastructure features a north-south flyover connecting the Burma Camp bypass to Boundary Road and redesigned roundabouts to optimise traffic flow.
It spans 802 metres, with ramps for seamless connectivity, dedicated walkways, cycling lanes, and aesthetic enhancements such as fountains and murals.
The project also incorporates community-centred facilities like a 100-car parking area, recreational amenities, and public art installations, reflecting a holistic approach to urban development.
For years, the Flower Pot Roundabout was plagued by congestion, with engineers reporting staggering peak-hour traffic volumes of over 5,000 vehicles per hour.
“This is not just an interchange; it is a symbol of our commitment to ensuring that every Ghanaian experiences the tangible benefits of governance.
“Roads are pathways to opportunity and prosperity, and today, we deliver on our promise to transform Ghana’s infrastructure landscape,” President Akufo-Addo said.
The President underscored the importance of road infrastructure in achieving national development, pointing out that the project aligns with the government’s broader vision of building a modern, interconnected country.
The Flower Pot Interchange joins a list of completed projects that includes the Pokuase, Tema Motorway, and Obetsebi Lamptey interchanges.
These projects, according to the President, reflect strategic planning and a commitment to excellence.
“We have constructed more roads and interchanges than any other administration in Ghana’s history.
“From the northern savannahs to the southern coastline, we are building a new Ghana where infrastructure serves as a catalyst for development,” President Akufo-Addo asserted.
He said there were other ongoing interchange projects across the country, and mentioned the Obetsebi Lamptey, Nungua, Adjiringanor, and Suame interchanges.
According to him, these initiatives are testaments of his government’s resolve to comprehensively address the nation’s infrastructure deficits.
Minister
The Minister of Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye, underscored the significance of the project, describing it as a critical milestone in the country’s road infrastructure development.
“Today’s event signifies an important step forward in our mission to drive the socio-economic development of our country,” he remarked.
He said the interchange project, first conceptualised in the early 2000s, evolved significantly from its initial scope.
According to him, originally planned as two simple overpasses, the design was expanded under the administration of President Akufo-Addo to include a continuous viaduct and numerous auxiliary roads connecting key areas such as East Legon, Shiashie, and Cantonments.
“This comprehensive solution reflects our commitment to solving long-standing traffic issues while enhancing the quality of life for residents and travellers,” Mr. Asenso-Boakye added.
The minister indicated that the project was executed by China Railway No. 5 Engineering Ghana Limited, with supervision by Deoke Consult, and jointly funded by the Government of Ghana and a facility from Afrexim Bank.
Road Maintenance
Mr. Asenso-Boakye also addressed challenges faced by other road projects, such as the Tema-Aflao Road, which have stalled due to delays in funding caused by Ghana’s debt exchange programme.
He assured citizens of interim maintenance efforts to mitigate commuter difficulties and reiterated the government’s commitment to completing these essential projects.
Responsible Use
The minister, however, emphasised the importance of preserving the new infrastructure, and urged citizens to avoid defacing public roads with unauthorised advertisements and structures.
He also tasked the Bridge Maintenance Section of the National Roads Authority with implementing regular maintenance protocols to ensure the durability of the interchange.
Mr. Asenso-Boakye expressed gratitude to President Akufo-Addo for his leadership and called on Ghanaians to take pride in the Flower Pot Interchange as a symbol of progress.
“This state-of-the-art interchange is built for you,” he said, and continued, “Let us maintain it responsibly and use it safely.”
By Ernest Kofi Adu