President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to develop a new city outside Accra and relocate key government institutions there as part of a long-term strategy to reduce pressure on the capital and tackle its persistent flooding and rapid urbanisation.
The President made the announcement after undertaking an aerial assessment of communities affected by the June 29, 2026, torrential rains, which triggered widespread flooding across the Greater Accra Region.
The disaster claimed several lives, displaced hundreds of residents, and destroyed homes, businesses, and public infrastructure in several communities.
Following the inspection, President Mahama acknowledged the urgent need for immediate interventions, including improving drainage systems and providing relief to affected victims.
However, he stressed that lasting solutions would require reducing the growing concentration of people, businesses, and government institutions in Accra.
“But ultimately, the other solution will be to decongest Accra. And that’s why we’re planning that we move some of the city out, that is, the major government departments, and then also create a new centre of growth so that our people will start building outside Accra in a new city instead of everybody looking for some space in Accra,” Mahama said.
Watch as President Mahama conducts aerial inspection of flood-hit areas in Accra
According to President Mahama, the proposed city forms part of a broader national development agenda that is expected to be implemented over approximately 20 years.
He explained that experts are currently preparing the design and master plan for the project. Once that process is completed, land will be allocated for residential, commercial, and institutional purposes to encourage development outside the capital.
“That’s a long-term solution. Like I said, it’s a 20-year project. They are still working on the designs. Once they do that, we’ll demarcate the land. People can start buying plots if they like, and can start building houses. We’ll do the roads and bring the water and electricity so that it eases the pressure on Accra as a city,” he stated.
The President indicated that the government would provide the essential infrastructure needed to support the new city, including road networks, electricity, and water supply, with the aim of attracting both individuals and businesses to settle there instead of continuing to concentrate development within Accra.
The June 29, 2026, heavy rains inundated several parts of the capital, with communities including Circle, Alajo, Kaneshie, Adabraka, Achimota, Weija, Madina, Adenta, Lapaz, and sections of Spintex experiencing severe flooding.
The floods left thousands of residents stranded, disrupted transportation and commercial activities, and caused significant damage to property across the metropolis.
AK/BAI
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