Volivo Bridge project could start by early 2027 – Says Roads Minister

The construction of the long-awaited Volivo Bridge across the River Volta could begin by the end of 2026 or in early 2027, according to Ghana’s Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza.

The government is working more closely with its Japanese counterparts and the project consultants in an effort to speed up the remaining procedures before construction can begin.

Agbodza was speaking on Thursday, November 5, during the opening of bids for the project. He said the latest stage should allow a contractor to be selected and enable work to move into its construction phase.

“This will be the most beautiful engineering bridge piece on the landscape of Ghana. This process started somewhere 2015-2016. A full bidding process was carried out. We are hoping that towards the end of the year, early part of next year, actual construction work should be ready,” he said.

The minister said progress had been accelerated through cooperation with the Japanese partners and consultants, allowing the project to reach the bid-opening stage sooner than would otherwise have been possible.

“We shouldn’t have been at this milestone yet, but working together with our Japanese counterparts and the consultants, we’ve been able to fast-track many of the processes leading to us having the opportunity to do the bid opening today,” he said.

Agbodza described the bridge as an important example of the long-standing relationship between Ghana and Japan. He said he hoped completing the project would further highlight the strength of the partnership between the 2 countries.

The minister also called on the successful bidder to carry out the work diligently and finish the bridge within the agreed timeframe.

He said the government would provide the support needed to help ensure the project is delivered.