In 2017, Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo broke ground for the launch of a project called the Marine Drive Project in Accra.
The Marine Drive Project is an initiative by the Government of Ghana to transform the coastal region of Accra into a world-renowned tourism and entertainment destination. The project covers an area of 241 acres extending from Osu Castle in the Arts Centreand includes historical and cultural landmarks such as Independence Square and the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum.
The project aims to transform the city’s skyline and create a world-class tourism enclave that will boost the national economy and cultural and creative industries. The project is expected to be completed by 2027.
Fast forward to 2024 and the project appears to have stalled. So what happened and will the project see the light of day?
History of the Project
The project was conceived by the first president of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, in the 1960s, but remained stalled for decades due to various challenges. Revived in 2013 by President John Mahama, and was officially launched in 2017 by President Nana Akufo-Addo. The project is estimated that it cost about $1.5 billionand is implemented through a public-private partnership model.
The project is designed by Adjaye Associatesa famous architectural firm headed by Sir David Adjaye, Ghanaian-British architect. The design features three urban anchors that celebrate Ghana’s rich history:
- a new public park honoring the forefathers of Ghana’s independence
- a new national concert hall and conference center next to the Nkrumah monument and
- a renovated Osu castle and gardens;
Benefits
The project aims to create a vibrant and attractive waterfront promenade that will offer a variety of recreational, leisure, cultural, commercial and residential facilities. It will also provide essential infrastructure to support the country’s growing creative industries.
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The project is expected to create approximately 150,000 direct and indirect jobsthey boost tourism development, improve the city’s skyline and contribute to the national economy.
Challenges and delays
The project is currently in its first phase of construction, which includes site preparation, land reclamation, roadworks, drainage, utilities and landscaping. The first phase is expected to be completed by 2024. The second phase will include the construction of the various buildings and facilities on the site.
However, the project faces many challenges that could hinder its progress and impact. Some of these challenges are:
Financing
The project is a Public Private Partnership project based on contributions from both the government and the private sector. However, according to the Ministry of Tourism, the financial balance of the project is emptywhich negatively affects the implementation of the project.
Planning
The project is located in a ministerial enclave that serves multiple functions such as hosting the Osu Castle, the Parliament, the law courts complex and several government ministries and agencies.
This poses a planning challenge as the project could disrupt existing operations and create congestion and safety issues in the area.
The Marine Drive Project is a visionary and ambitious initiative that could transform Ghana’s tourism sector and urban development.
However, it also requires careful planning, adequate funding and strong security measures to overcome its challenges and achieve its goals.
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