The Mahama administration is facing mounting criticism following the acquisition of refurbished British railway locomotives that spent decades operating in the United Kingdom before being shipped to Ghana in a deal reported to be worth about £3 million.
The locomotives, identified as 56094 and 56302, are former British Rail Class 56 engines originally built more than 40 years ago. Although they were refurbished before export, the purchase has sparked outrage among critics, who argue that Ghana should be investing in newer railway technology instead of decades-old equipment.
Opposition figures and policy critics have demanded answers, asking why millions of pounds were spent on ageing locomotives when the country urgently needs modern transport infrastructure capable of supporting long-term economic growth.
They are calling on the government to publish the full procurement documents, technical inspection reports, refurbishment specifications, warranties, expected service life, and the complete cost breakdown of the transaction.
Critics insist that Ghanaians deserve to know whether the acquisition represents genuine value for money or whether taxpayers are being asked to finance equipment that has already seen decades of service abroad.
Government supporters strongly reject the criticism, arguing that the locomotives are refurbished—not “expired”—and that properly overhauled railway equipment can remain reliable for many years. They maintain that buying refurbished locomotives is an internationally accepted and cost-effective way to restore freight rail services.
But the controversy refuses to die.
Across the country, questions are growing louder. Was this a prudent investment designed to revive Ghana’s struggling railway sector, or a costly gamble on ageing foreign equipment?
Until the government provides comprehensive documentation explaining why these locomotives were chosen and how the reported £3 million was spent, the public debate is unlikely to subside.
For many Ghanaians, the issue goes beyond two locomotives. It is about transparency, accountability, and whether every cedi of public money is being invested in the nation’s future.
