$2M Sky Train Scandal: Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi Pleads Not Guilty in High-Profile Trial
On Monday, May 26, 2025, Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, former Board Chairman of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), appeared before the Accra High Court and pleaded not guilty to all charges related to the controversial Sky Train project.
The charges stem from a $2 million payment made in 2019 to Africa Investor Holdings Limited for preliminary work on the Sky Train project—a proposed urban rail system in Accra that was never realized. Prosecutors allege that this payment was authorized without proper board approval, violating GIIF's governance protocols.
Professor Ameyaw-Akumfi faces multiple counts, including:
- Conspiracy to commit a crime, specifically willfully causing financial loss to the Republic
- Willfully causing financial loss to the state
- Conspiracy to commit a crime, specifically intentional dissipation of public funds
- Intentional dissipation of public funds
During the hearing, his legal team requested bail, citing his advanced age and health issues, including recent hip surgery and a heart condition requiring ongoing medical attention. They emphasized that he is not a flight risk and has a permanent residence in Pokuase, Greater Accra Region.
The Sky Train project, initiated in 2018 as a public-private partnership involving the Ministry of Railways Development, Africa Investor Holdings, and GIIF, aimed to transform Accra's transportation system. However, investigations revealed that the $2 million disbursement lacked proper due diligence and violated GIIF's governance protocols.
This case is part of the government's broader efforts to address financial malfeasance in public projects. The trial continues as the court examines the evidence and testimonies presented.
