Project to develop beach front to kick off

Accra, Feb. 23, GNA - A project that seeks to modernize the beach front in Accra with the aim of making the city a trade and economic hub in the West African sub-region would soon kick off.

The project jointly financed by three Chinese companies would be situated on land stretching from the Osu Castle through the Independence Square to the Arts Centre in Accra.

Mrs Zita Okai-Koi, Minister of Tourism, at a meeting with some chiefs in Accra to discuss the project, said Ghana stood to benefit immensely if the project materialized emphasizing its enormous social and economic benefits to the country.

The project which would involve the construction of a World Trade Centre would also help create a social and commercial infrastructure in the capital city.

The Minister said it would also help attract more investment in trade and improve tourism in addition to generating revenue and employment and increase foreign exchange earnings.

Togbe Afede XIV, Paramount of Asogli Traditional Area, who is also the leader of Strategic Initiatives Limited, the local investors, explaining the components of the project, said there would be a three-unit of 18-floor high rise apartment blocks, 216 flats, three floors shopping mall, a 21-floor World Trade Centre, a six-floor 500-room five star hotel.

Other components in the project include a mini-golf course, 15-floor office complex for the Ministry of Tourism, conference and exhibition centres as well as a recreational centre and a beach football pitch. He said the overall objective of the project is to develop and sustain the entire stretch and the marine drive.

Togbe Afede XIV, who is also a member of the World Trade Centre Association, said the project would position Ghana on the international market, since it made Ghana the third country in the sub-region to have a World Trade Centre. The Ga Chiefs praised the project calling for the involvement of more local people. 22 Feb. 10