The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has assured that all outstanding salary arrears owed to workers of the Ghana Railway Company Limited will be fully settled by the end of April 2026.

The assurance comes amid growing concerns over months of unpaid wages in the railway sector, which has struggled with limited revenue generation.

Speaking during a working tour of the Western Rail Line, the Minister acknowledged the challenges but stressed government’s commitment to resolving the issue and restoring confidence among workers.

Beyond clearing arrears, Mr. Nikpe outlined plans to revitalise the sector by extending the Western Rail Line to key mining sites across the Western Region.

He explained that linking rail infrastructure directly to mining operations would improve freight volumes and generate sustainable revenue for the sector.

“We must connect the rail lines to where economic activity is highest, particularly the mining areas, to ensure the long-term viability of the railway system,” he indicated.

The Minister was accompanied on the tour by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Railway Development Authority, Frederick Appoh, who highlighted illegal mining (galamsey) as a major threat to railway infrastructure.

Dr. Appoh noted that the Authority will collaborate with relevant state agencies to address the menace and protect rail assets.

As part of the visit, the delegation also inspected operations at a local manufacturing firm in Eshiem producing railway sleepers, a move expected to reduce reliance on imports and support local industry.

The government’s dual approach—settling salary arrears and expanding rail connectivity—is seen as a key step toward revitalising Ghana’s railway sector and enhancing its contribution to economic growth.