The Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has stated that the development of major railway lines in the country will be pivotal in accelerating the transformation Ghana requires.

To this end, he has outlined ambitious plans to prioritise the development of three major railway lines, aiming to boost the nation’s transformation if he is elected President.

"One of my priorities in terms of infrastructure development is railway expansion," Dr Bawumia told stakeholders of the Atwima Mponua Constituency at the start of his Ashanti Regional tour on Monday.

"This is very important for our country because if we are blessed with bauxite but lack sufficient railway lines, it creates a significant challenge. Developing our railways will greatly benefit Ghana," he said.

"There are three main railway lines that I intend to focus on: from Tema in Greater Accra to Kumasi; then from Kumasi to Takoradi; and from Awaasi, through Nyinahin to Eduade. We will deliver these railway lines for you," Dr Bawumia said, adding that the short-distance line from Adum to Akaase is also a railway project his government will address.

Dr Bawumia emphasised the importance of focusing on railway infrastructure, despite the ongoing construction of numerous kilometres of roads.

"We are building roads, and that work is still in progress, but I will also focus on railways because that is where real transformation will come from."

"The railway is essential for our country. We will extend it from Accra through Kumasi to the north, enabling us to fully exploit our bauxite, iron ore, and other natural deposits. This is what will drive the transformation we need."