Railway operations unsustainable without private sector – Railway Authority Boss

Dr. Frederick Appoh is the Executive Director of the Ghana Railway Development Authority. He emphasized the need for private sector involvement in Ghana's railway system. He stated that the government cannot handle all financial responsibilities alone.

On May 20, 2025, Dr. Appoh spoke on the Citi Breakfast Show. He explained that challenges in Ghana’s railway sector come from its outdated state-controlled model. This model is unsustainable and limits revenue and innovation.

Dr. Appoh pointed out that most countries have a different approach. In many places, the state owns infrastructure while private entities manage operations. Only Ghana, Romania, and Slovakia still have state-run rail systems.

He said this often leads to limited revenue and poor long-term development. "The operation of the railway hasn’t been great," he noted. He added that this is not due to a lack of government support but a failure to involve the private sector.

Using the Tema-Mpakadan Railway line as an example, Dr. Appoh mentioned ongoing efforts for change. He believes a new strategy will ease financial burdens on the government. It will also create opportunities for innovation and efficiency in rail services.

"We are setting up an operational plan for Tema-Mpakadan," he said. Additionally, they propose a market funding approach to encourage private participation in the industry. This aims to promote development and competition within the railway line.