Nana Kwame Bediako, a prominent figure in Ghanaian business circles and leader of The New Force Movement, has stirred controversy with his bold promise to extend the sea from Ghana’s coast into the landlocked Ashanti Region.
Known affectionately as “Freedom Jacob Caesar” or “Cheddar” among his supporters, Bediako’s audacious proposal has sparked intense debate, with critics questioning its feasibility and practicality.
In a recent interview with Kojo Marfo on Abusua 96.5 FM in Kumasi, Bediako elaborated on his ambitious vision. Drawing inspiration from other nations’ success in expanding maritime transport routes inland, he questioned why Ghana still relies on slower, less efficient road transportation for individual containers. Bediako emphasized the need to revamp the East and Western Corridor infrastructure, envisioning the establishment of power and energy stations, gas connections, industrial hubs, and the integration of advanced technologies.
His plan also advocates for value addition and local manufacturing, urging Ghana to utilize its abundant resources for producing electronic gadgets using domestically sourced materials like lithium and plastics.
Despite Bediako’s ambitious goals, doubts linger about the practicality of his proposal. Critics raise concerns about technical, environmental, and financial challenges, suggesting that the venture would require substantial investment, meticulous planning, and could have adverse ecological impacts.
Currently, Bediako is on a nationwide “listening tour,” engaging with ordinary Ghanaians to incorporate their feedback into his manifesto for the upcoming national election.
