Ghana Accelerates Transport Modernization with KIA Security Upgrades and Urban Transit Reforms

Ghana is embarking on a comprehensive overhaul of its transportation infrastructure, spanning both international aviation and domestic urban transit systems. Key developments include the introduction of advanced security technology at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) and high-level policy discussions aimed at revolutionizing urban mobility in major cities like Accra and Kumasi. These initiatives are positioned as critical drivers for economic growth and improved passenger experiences, reflecting a strategic shift toward modernizing Ghana's gateway and internal transport networks. At the 5th Aviation Ghana Breakfast Meeting, Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, Managing Director of Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), announced a significant technological leap for Terminal 2. The airport will introduce 3D analogue baggage scanners, which will streamline the security process by eliminating the requirement for passengers to remove liquids and, eventually, shoes from their luggage. This modernization is part of a massive US$800 million infrastructure program designed to enhance passenger comfort and operational efficiency. To fund these enhancements and address structural financial gaps, a new Airport Infrastructure Development Charge (AIDC) will be implemented starting April 1, 2026, with fees set at US$50 for international travelers and US$15 for those within the ECOWAS region. Simultaneously, the domestic transport landscape is under scrutiny at the Graphic Business/Stanbic Bank Breakfast Meeting. Themed 'Why resetting Ghana’s urban transport system is an economic necessity,' the forum at Labadi Beach Hotel has brought together policymakers, transport operators, and financial leaders to address chronic congestion and inefficiency. The discussions prioritize structured bus rapid transit (BRT) systems, regulatory improvements, and the integration of digital ticketing to modernize the daily commute for millions. Experts emphasize that increasing private sector involvement and adopting technology-driven solutions are essential for transforming transport networks in economic hubs like Accra and Kumasi. These twin pillars of reform—aviation technology and urban transit restructuring—reflect a broader national strategy to enhance Ghana's competitiveness and regional standing. While the aviation upgrades offer immediate benefits to international travelers, the urban transport reforms aim to solve long-standing bottlenecks that hinder local economic productivity. Together, these initiatives signal a shift toward data-driven infrastructure development that seeks to balance public convenience with sustainable financing models.