The Government of Ghana has signed a US$6-billion contract with the Chinese National Machinery Import and Export Corporation (CMC) for the construction of railway infrastructure in Ghana. The project, when completed, will provide rail lines from Nsawam through Kumasi to Paga and from Tamale to Yendi. According to the contract, the first and the second phases of the project will commence in September 2011 and June 2014, respectively. At a signing ceremony in Accra, the Minister of Transport, Mr Mike Hammah, stated that good railway and an efficient transport system contributed effectively to a nation's economic development, hence the need to rehabilitate and modernise the railway system in Ghana. He stressed the need for the development of railway infrastructure in the country as a means of accelerating economic growth and opening up the country. The Minister gave the assurance that the government was committed to the revamping of the railway system to attract investors into the country and develop the country's export and import sectors. This will make it more competitive and bring about improved balance of payment, as well as create job opportunities for the youth, in line with the government's Better Ghana Agenda. He expressed the hope that the agreement would further enhance the cordial relationship between Ghana and China. The Vice-President of CMC, Mr Zhao Jun, expressed his appreciation to the government for the collaboration and also expressed the hope that with the support and help of the Chinese government, his company would execute the job satisfactorily and on schedule. The Board Chairman of the Ghana Railway Development Authority, Mr Daniel K. Markin, who signed the contract on behalf of Ghana, said upon completion of the project, the country would be opened up to many businesses, as road traffic congestion and accidents would reduce considerably. The Ghana Railway Company Limited is a public sector body with the responsibility for the efficient management of the national rail system to ensure the smooth movement of goods and passengers. Source: Daily Graphic