<h1><br></h1><p>The President made the commitment on Thursday, August 13, 2026, when he inspected the proposed airport site at Sumbrungu-Kulbia in the Upper East Region as part of his working tour of the area.</p><p>President Mahama said the time had come for residents and businesses in the region to have direct access to air travel rather than travelling about 160 kilometres to Tamale to board domestic flights to Accra. He explained that the airport would allow businesspeople and other travellers to move between the Upper East Region and Accra more quickly, while also creating opportunities for increased commercial activity.</p><p>The President said the facility would be particularly beneficial to businesses and mining companies operating in the region. He noted that improved air connectivity could make it easier for mining companies to transport gold bullion to Accra and could also make the region more attractive to investors.</p><p>Beyond the airport itself, President Mahama said the government intends to develop a city around the facility to maximise its economic potential.</p><p>The project is currently at the procurement stage, with the President expressing optimism that construction will begin before the end of 2026. The proposed construction period is 24 months, although contractors have indicated that the facility could be completed earlier.</p><p>The proposed airport is expected to feature a 2.2-kilometre runway capable of supporting domestic and commercial flights.</p><p>President Mahama said the Upper East project forms part of a broader government programme to expand Ghana’s aviation infrastructure. Similar airport developments are planned for Wa in the Upper West Region and Sunyani in the Bono Region.</p><p>The airport is expected to improve regional connectivity while supporting trade, tourism, investment and other economic activities in the Upper East Region.</p>