Kumasi Metro CEO talks tough in building city on foundation of discipline

Kumasi's Metropolitan Chief Executive, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, has a bold vision. His theme is “Building a Better Kumasi.”

He has identified five key priorities. These include boosting tourism, improving sanitation, and creating jobs. He also aims to establish a better business environment and expand infrastructure.

“We must use what we do to create employment,” he stated. This sets the stage for significant changes in the city.

Boadi highlighted issues in the Central Business District (CBD). The Adum Market is overcrowded with hawkers blocking walkways and streets. This makes it hard for shoppers and businesses to operate.

“Businesses within the CBD tend to suffer,” he noted during an interview with David Akuetteh at Luv FM. Navigating Adum can be quite difficult.

He mentioned that relocating hawkers hasn't worked before. Instead, he proposes reorganizing Adum with a one-way traffic system. One lane will be for entry and another for exit.

Starting April 16, 2025, the KMA will launch a sanitation campaign. This will also include efforts to reduce congestion in the city.

The mayor warned that those who dump waste irresponsibly will face consequences. “If you do this within this time and I catch you…” he began ominously.

He added that offenders could face public beatings as punishment. He described his approach as having a “military democratic attitude” toward governance.

In an unusual move, Boadi plans to partner with the Regional Prisons Command. A 50-man prison cleaning gang will help clear streets in Adum daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Two dump trucks will collect waste every hour during this effort.

Mr. Boadi expressed disappointment in local technical institutions like KsTU and KNUST. He feels their impact on city development is minimal.

“These schools’ impacts aren’t being felt,” he said. They should assist in modernizing Kumasi through technology.

Bridging academia and urban development is crucial for progress, according to him. He praised Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Frank Amoakohene’s initiatives involving academia in governance.

“I will team up with him,” Boadi stated about future collaborations with institutional heads.

As his administration begins, King Zuba is ready to make bold changes in Kumasi.