Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has assured Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the Asanteman of more development projects. The President emphasized his vision for the Ashanti Region, which includes the dualisation of the Accra-Kumasi road and the expansion of key road infrastructure projects, alongside the completion of significant healthcare and market projects.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama highlighted plans for the Afari Military Hospital, the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Maternity Block, and Phase 2 of the Kejetia Market project. He announced that feasibility studies on the dualisation of the Accra-Kumasi Road would commence soon, with construction works expected to begin early next year.
The President made these remarks during a courtesy visit by Otumfuo Osei Tutu at the Presidency in Accra. Otumfuo and his entourage visited to congratulate President Mahama on his election victory in the December 7, 2024, general election and to reciprocate the President’s visit to Manhyia. President Mahama expressed that Otumfuo’s presence brought the timeless wisdom of the Golden Stool and the dignity of the Asante Kingdom.
President Mahama recalled previous collaborations with Otumfuo, including the construction of the Kejetia Market Phase 1 and the expansion of the Kumasi International Airport. He noted that his prior administration initiated several hospital projects in Ashanti, like the Sewua and Afari Ministry Hospitals, which were neglected by the previous government over the past eight years.
The President mentioned the completion of numerous community day senior high schools and the 3K water project, which improved water access in Konongo and Kumawu. He also highlighted the reconstruction of several roads in the Kumasi Metropolitan and surrounding districts. As part of the Big Push Infrastructure Programme, new investments in infrastructural projects are set to commence, ensuring Ashanti’s inclusion.
President Mahama confirmed plans for the feasibility study and design of the new Accra-Kumasi Expressway, with construction anticipated to begin next year. He discussed the intent to complete Phase 2 of the Kejetia market project, affected by the debt exchange programme. The Government aims to begin construction of the Kumasi Outer Ring Road project, reducing traffic congestion by rerouting large trucks away from Kumasi City.
Further developments include extending the runway of the Prempeh International Airport in Kumasi to accommodate larger aircraft and implementing the Kumasi City traffic improvement programme, which will complete the Suame interchange and associated bridges. Otumfuo Osei Tutu praised President Mahama for his humility and urged him to remain humble and bold in fulfilling his mandate from the people of Ghana. Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang was present at the meeting.