Dambai, Oti Region — August 24, 2026
Construction of the long-awaited Dambai Bridge over the Oti River is progressing, with the major infrastructure project scheduled for completion in May 2029.
The bridge, which forms part of the Government of Ghana’s Big Push Infrastructure Programme, is expected to provide a permanent crossing between Dambai and Dodoikope, improve transportation along the Eastern Corridor and significantly strengthen economic links between communities in the Oti Region and other parts of Ghana.
The project comprises an approximately 1.49-kilometre bridge and 6.8 kilometres of approach roads, making it one of the most significant bridge infrastructure projects currently under construction in the country. Construction commenced in January 2026, with completion scheduled for May 2029.
According to Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, physical construction had reached about six per cent by the end of June 2026, slightly ahead of the planned schedule. Foundation works and construction of a temporary bridge to support the main engineering works were already underway.
Preparatory activities at the project site have included the mobilisation of heavy-duty equipment and the development of facilities for engineers, technicians and other construction workers. A temporary steel bridge across the Oti River was also planned to provide a working platform for the construction of the permanent structure.
Government Demands Timely, Quality Delivery
Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza, during an inspection of the project, directed contractor Maripoma Enterprise Limited to deliver the bridge within the agreed timeframe and budget while maintaining required engineering standards.
Agbodza said the project is being financed by the Government of Ghana from domestic resources, stressing that its construction must deliver lasting value to the country.
The Minister described the bridge as a strategic infrastructure investment capable of transforming transportation and stimulating economic activity across the Oti Region.
Ending Years of Dependence on Ferry Crossings
For decades, commuters, traders and residents travelling across the Oti River around Dambai have depended largely on ferry and boat services, sometimes resulting in delays and limitations on the movement of vehicles, agricultural commodities and other goods.
The permanent bridge is expected to change that situation substantially.
Once completed, motorists will have a more reliable all-weather crossing, while communities on both sides of the river are expected to gain improved access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities and commercial centres.
The project could also provide a major boost to agriculture by making it easier for farmers in surrounding districts to move produce to Dambai and other major markets. Improved accessibility is similarly expected to support commerce, tourism, investment and regional integration.
Strategic Link for Ghana’s Eastern Corridor
Beyond its immediate benefits to Dambai, the bridge is strategically important to Ghana’s wider transport network.
The permanent Dambai–Dodoikope crossing is expected to strengthen movement along the Eastern Corridor, providing improved connectivity between communities in northern and southern parts of the country and reducing transportation bottlenecks associated with crossing the Oti River.
With construction progressing and government maintaining the May 2029 completion target, the Dambai Bridge is increasingly emerging as one of the flagship infrastructure projects expected to reshape transportation and economic activity in the Oti Region.
For residents who have waited decades for a permanent crossing over the River Oti, the project represents more than a bridge: it could become a critical economic link connecting communities, markets and opportunities across the region.