President John Dramani Mahama has highlighted Ghana’s growing investment in transport infrastructure, describing an efficient transportation system as a key driver of economic growth, industrialisation and private sector investment.
The President made the remarks on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, in Moscow, Russia, after receiving an honorary doctorate from the Russian University of Transport (RUT), one of Russia’s leading institutions for transport education and research.
President Mahama became the first sitting Head of State to receive an honorary doctorate from the 130-year-old university. The institution recognised his leadership and commitment to infrastructure development and education.
Mahama Outlines Big Push Transport Infrastructure Projects
Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama emphasised the importance of transportation infrastructure in national development, noting that railways, highways, seaports and aviation have historically contributed to the economic transformation of nations.
He said his administration is investing in modernising Ghana’s transport network to improve connectivity, support businesses and attract investment.
Under the government’s Big Push infrastructure programme, major projects include the reconstruction of key roads across the country, the expansion of existing port facilities, airport modernisation and the development of three new regional airports.
The government is also investing in freight rail services and expanding Ghana’s railway network to improve cargo transportation, facilitate trade and reduce the cost of moving goods.
These transport infrastructure investments are expected to strengthen Ghana’s logistics sector, improve access to markets and support long-term economic development.
Ghana Airways Revival Plans
President Mahama also disclosed that the government is working to revive Ghana’s national airline, Ghana Airways, which ceased operations in 2004.
He expressed optimism that the country could restore its national airline before the end of his presidential tenure.
The proposed revival is expected to strengthen Ghana’s aviation sector, improve international connectivity and create opportunities for tourism, trade and employment.
Mahama Receives Second Honorary Doctorate in Moscow
The honorary doctorate from the Russian University of Transport was the second academic recognition President Mahama received in Moscow on October 27, 2026.
Earlier that day, he was awarded another honorary doctorate by the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN), where he studied as a postgraduate student nearly four decades ago.
As part of efforts to deepen educational and diplomatic relations between Ghana and Russia, RUDN also announced a new Patrice Lumumba scholarship programme for seven students annually.
Ghana Explores Nuclear Energy for Industrialisation
During an interactive session with students before the RUT conferment ceremony, President Mahama revealed that Ghana is exploring nuclear energy as part of its strategy to accelerate industrialisation.
He explained that processing minerals locally instead of exporting raw materials would require substantially more electricity than the country currently generates.
The President said his long-term vision is to translate Ghana’s macroeconomic improvements into employment opportunities and better prospects for young people.
He stressed that industrial development, reliable electricity supply and value addition are essential to creating sustainable jobs and strengthening the national economy.
Mahama Attends 2026 Russia-Africa Summit
President Mahama is in Moscow to participate in the third Russia-Africa Summit, scheduled for October 28 and 29, 2026, under the hosting of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The summit brings together African leaders and Russian officials to discuss cooperation in trade, energy, infrastructure, education and other strategic sectors.
An accompanying Economic and Humanitarian Forum is also expected to provide opportunities for discussions on investment, business partnerships and development cooperation between Russia and African countries.
President Mahama is expected to hold bilateral talks with President Putin and engage Russian businesses and state institutions on the sidelines of the summit.
Ghana’s participation is expected to strengthen diplomatic relations and explore opportunities for investment in transportation, energy, industrialisation and other priority sectors.
Source: newsthemegh.com