Sofoline Interchange

Sofo Line Interchange
Location
Kumasi, Ghana
Construction

The Sofo Line Interchange is a flyover under construction in Kumasi, Ghana.[1]The Sofoline Interchange is a major highway interchange located in Kumasi, the capital city of Ghana’s Ashanti Region. Situated along the KumasiSunyani highway, the interchange was constructed to ease heavy traffic congestion on one of Kumasi’s busiest transport corridors, connecting Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Sofoline, and Abuakwa.

The interchange is one of the largest in the city and plays a crucial role in improving transportation within the Kumasi metropolis, especially on the western stretch of the city’s ring road network. It features multiple flyovers, ramps, and a grade-separated road system designed to streamline traffic flow, reduce travel time, and improve road safety.

Background and Purpose

Before the construction of the Sofoline Interchange, the Kumasi–Sunyani road was one of the most congested routes in the city, particularly near key areas like the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Sofoline roundabout. Traffic bottlenecks were common, leading to long delays for commuters and commercial vehicles alike. The government of Ghana initiated the interchange project to resolve these issues and facilitate smoother vehicular movement across the western part of Kumasi.[2]

Construction and Design

Construction of the Sofoline Interchange began in the mid-2000s under Ghana’s road infrastructure development program. The project was executed by China Geo-Engineering Corporation and funded by the Government of Ghana with support from external sources. The total cost of the project was estimated at US$80 million.[3][4]The interchange includes:

  • Dual carriageway flyovers
  • Cloverleaf-style ramps for easy turning
  • Service roads for local traffic
  • Pedestrian walkways and safety barriers

The design was aimed at enhancing urban mobility and integrating Kumasi’s growing suburbs with the central business district.

Impact

The interchange has significantly improved the flow of traffic on the Kumasi–Sunyani stretch and surrounding neighborhoods. Travel time between areas such as Abuakwa, Barekese, and Santasi has been greatly reduced. Emergency vehicles heading to Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital also benefit from faster and uninterrupted access.

In addition to easing traffic, the Sofoline Interchange has had a positive effect on real estate development and commerce in the area. Businesses, transport operators, and commuters report increased efficiency, and property values have risen in nearby communities.

Criticism and Delays

Although the interchange is now fully operational, it faced several construction delays spanning multiple government administrations.[5] The delays were attributed to funding issues, changes in design, and land acquisition challenges. These setbacks extended the completion timeline and temporarily inconvenienced local residents and road users.


References

  1. ^ "Ghana: Sofoline, Asokwa Interchanges in Danger". www.allafrica.com2100715.html. Retrieved 5 June 2011.
  2. ^ "People and Places: The Sofoline Interchange". Graphic Online. 2025-02-22. Retrieved 2025-07-08.
  3. ^ khophi (2020-10-25). "Sofoline interchange - kumasi". Experience Africa Today. Retrieved 2025-07-08.
  4. ^ "The Sofoline Interchange: Transforming Urban Transportation in Kumasi - Kuro Africa". kuroafrica.com. 2024-05-07. Retrieved 2025-07-08.
  5. ^ "Sofoline Interchange Stopped". Modern Ghana. Retrieved 2025-07-08.