GPHA Targets January 2027 for Keta Port Headquarters as 42 Investors Vie for Project

The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has announced a revised timeline for the Keta Port Project, with the new port headquarters now expected to be operational by January 2027. Major General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono (Rtd), Director-General of the GPHA, confirmed the update during a community engagement session, noting that while the project faced initial delays, it has now gained significant momentum. A key milestone was reached with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) granting approval for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), signaling a green light for the next phase of construction and investment.

The project has attracted substantial commercial interest, with 42 local and international companies expressing interest in the port's development. Following the EPA’s approval, the GPHA is set to begin a rigorous screening process to select the most qualified partners. According to Major General Tanye-Kulono, the authority plans to narrow this list down to four preferred bidders within the next three months. These final candidates will undergo intensive due diligence to ensure they possess the technical and financial capacity to deliver on the ambitious infrastructure goals.

Addressing the shift in the timeline from the original June 2023 target, the GPHA attributed the delay to deficiencies found in the initial construction scope and plans. However, a revised scope has since been approved by the Central Tender Review Board. Construction is currently estimated at approximately 40% completion. The development strategy involves controlled dredging to reclaim land while minimizing environmental disruption and implementing robust flood prevention measures to protect the surrounding ecosystem and community.

Once completed, the Keta Port is positioned to become a strategic hub for transit trade, serving landlocked West African neighbors including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Beyond its regional trade implications, the project is expected to be a major catalyst for local economic growth. The Volta Regional Minister expressed optimism regarding the port’s potential to enhance livelihoods, while the GPHA encouraged residents to prepare for the boom by investing in land, accommodation, and vocational training for port-related jobs. This local participation is viewed as essential for ensuring the project provides long-term benefits to the Keta community.