By Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
President John Dramani Mahama has announced fresh steps towards the re-establishment of a national airline and the introduction of a digital e-visa system, as part of efforts to reposition Ghana as a leading aviation hub in West Africa.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the interconnecting concourse at the Accra International Airport, the President revealed that he will this week meet a taskforce set up to develop a roadmap for reviving Ghana’s flag carrier.
“I am meeting the taskforce I set up to work towards the re-establishment of our national airline this week, and I am looking forward to receiving their presentation outlining the concrete roadmap for Ghana’s flag to fly proudly across Africa and in the global aviation space once again,” he stated.
President Mahama emphasised that the proposed national airline will create jobs for pilots, cabin crew, engineers and other aviation professionals, while accelerating Ghana’s ambition to become the preferred aviation hub in the sub-region.
He also announced that government is in the process of launching a new e-visa system to simplify travel into Ghana.
Under the new arrangement, travellers will no longer need to visit Ghanaian embassies physically to apply for visas.
“You go online, submit all your documents, and the visa will be issued directly to you,” he explained, noting that the system is expected to improve efficiency and enhance Ghana’s appeal as a destination for tourists and investors.
The President further commended the Minister of Foreign Affairs and a private Ghanaian investor for undertaking the refurbishment of the VVIP lounge at the airport at no cost to the state, describing the gesture as patriotic.
He disclosed that the facility, valued at nearly $2 million, will significantly upgrade services for high-level travellers.
President Mahama said the sod-cutting for the interconnecting concourse marks the beginning of a transformative phase in Ghana’s aviation sector.
“It is a statement of intent that Ghana is ready to lead, ready to compete and ready to build world-class infrastructure that matches our ambitions,” he added.
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Source:
www.gbcghanaonline.com