The Director General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Major General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, has revealed that 42 investors, both local and international, have expressed interest in the construction of the Port of Keta following the approval of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) permit by the Environmental Protection Agency.

He made this revelation when, together with the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, formally presented a copy of the EIA certificate to the Overlord of Anlo State, Togbui Sri III.

Major General Kulono described the permit as a pivotal milestone that clears the path for investor engagement and the next phase of development. He said that within the next three months, the 42 investors would be engaged and shortlisted to a manageable number before the procurement process commences.

He disclosed that the project's headquarters building, currently under construction, is expected to be operational by the end of January 2027.

In a symbolic gesture, a copy of the EIA certificate was handed to Togbui Sri III, who expressed profound appreciation to the President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the GPHA Board and Management for their dedication to the project. He described the port as a landmark achievement for the Volta Region and Ghana.

Speaking later at a stakeholder sensitisation forum held to update opinion leaders and residents on the attainment of the EPA permit, the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to delivering on its promises to the Volta Region. He highlighted ongoing projects in the region, adding that the Keta Port remains particularly dear to the people and symbolizes a transformative development for the region’s future.

The Member of Parliament for Anlo Constituency, Hon. Richard Kwame Sefe urged local youth to prepare themselves by acquiring skills in maritime and related fields. He advised young people to pursue courses which are consistent with job availability within the port space so that they can qualify for senior roles in port operations rather than being limited to menial positions.

“We should also be seen at the top when they are mentioning people as senior members,” he said, adding that the project must empower local names and talents. He expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama, the Regional Minister, and GPHA leadership for making the long-awaited project a reality.

Major General Kulono urged stakeholders to “carry everyone along” so that communities are fully prepared for the opportunities ahead.

Highlighting the port’s strategic importance, he noted that it would serve as a dedicated transit trade hub for Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, linked to the Eastern Corridor and future railway extensions. He encouraged parents to guide their children into port-related courses to secure employment opportunities when the facility becomes operational.

He also addressed environmental and social concerns identified in the EIA, including construction noise, dredging, dust and the potential social impacts associated with an influx of foreign workers. He assured stakeholders that mitigation measures are in place and emphasized that the port will help prevent tidal flooding in the area.

“Ports do not take one, two, or three years to complete,” he reminded stakeholders, adding that “during the construction phase, many business opportunities will emerge.”