On 28th April, 2019 the Minister for Railways Development, Hon. Joe Ghartey led a delegation to Beijing to meet with officials of CCECC to further discuss how to develop and implement the multi-million-dollar project.
The business scope of CCECC expands from international contracting for railway construction to civil engineering design & consultancy, real estate development, trading, industrial investment and hotel management as well. Its business activities have expanded to over 40 countries and regions where more than 20 overseas offices or subsidiaries have been established.
The Minister for Railways Development, Hon. Joe Ghartey was impressed with the quality of projects done by the Chinese firm. He urged them to give off their best in the construction of the Kumasi to Bechem section of the central spine.
Mr. Chen Sichang said they consider the project a priority. They therefore urged the Government of Ghana to count on them.
The Kumasi-Paga railway line will be routed through areas such as Nyinahin, Bibiani, Goaso, Sunyani and other adjourning towns to the north. It will be on a Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) basis with funding by a China Development Bank (CDB) credit facility.
In April, 2018, the Ministry of Railways Development signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Messrs CCECC to undertake feasibility studies and due diligence on the proposed rail line. The purpose of the MoU was to enable Messrs CCECC to study the proposed rail line in order to come out with a proposal for the consideration of the Ministry. Messrs CCECC has completed their due diligence and submitted their Final Report to the Ministry.
The project, which would be developed in sections, will have the Kumasi – Buipe section (approx. 390km). Messrs CCECC has a vast experience and track record in undertaking similar projects in Africa.