Choicenewsonline Your Choice Is Here
The World Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting urban mobility improvements in Kumasi through its collaboration on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System, a vital component of the Kumasi Urban Mobility Accessibility Project (KUMAP). In a recent visit, a high-level delegation from the World Bank, led by Mr. Ousmane Diagana, Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, paid a courtesy call on His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, to discuss the potential impact and feasibility of the BRT initiative for the Greater Kumasi Metropolitan Area.
The KUMAP project seeks to address the growing transportation challenges facing Kumasi, one of Ghana’s largest cities, as it experiences rapid population growth and urbanization. The project aims to introduce an efficient, sustainable, and integrated transport system across Kumasi and its surrounding districts, including Ejisu, Kwadaso, Oforikrom, and Atwima Kwabiagya South. With increasing traffic congestion and travel delays, the BRT system is expected to significantly improve mobility, reduce travel time, and enhance the safety and convenience of transportation for residents.
During the meeting, Mrs ousmane Diagana expressed the World Bank’s strong support for the BRT initiative, emphasizing the importance of urban mobility for fostering inclusive and sustainable development in Ghana. He assured Otumfuo Osei Tutu II that the World Bank would provide the necessary financial and technical support once the Government of Ghana submits its proposal. He also stressed that the BRT project is part of a broader commitment by the World Bank to address urban mobility issues in the West and Central African region.
“We are fully committed to collaborating with the Government of Ghana to enhance transportation systems in Kumasi, and we are excited to support this vital project,” said Mr. Diagana. “The BRT system aligns with the World Bank’s broader development goals, which include improving infrastructure and ensuring inclusive growth across the region.”
Madam Beatrice Kwarteng Osei Asare, the Ashanti Regional Development and Planning Officer, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the significance of the BRT system in facilitating the growth and development of Kumasi. She underscored the need for strong collaboration between local government assemblies and other stakeholders to ensure the success of the project. According to Madam Osei Asare, the BRT system will not only improve transportation but also contribute to better urban planning, management, and regional development.
“This project will be a cornerstone for improving urban management in Kumasi and its surrounding areas. We encourage active participation from the community and local assemblies to ensure the project’s success,” she stated, emphasizing the collaborative approach required for the realization of the BRT initiative.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in his remarks, expressed profound gratitude to the World Bank for its continued support for Ghana’s development, particularly in the area of transportation infrastructure. The Asantehene emphasized the importance of the BRT project in transforming Kumasi’s transport system, which is vital for the city’s growing population and overall urban development.
“We are deeply grateful to the World Bank for its sustained commitment to Ghana’s growth. I am confident that this project will not only enhance transportation in Kumasi but will also contribute significantly to the development of the entire Ashanti Region,” Otumfuo Osei Tutu II said. He reiterated his full support for the BRT initiative, expressing optimism about its potential to positively impact the region’s infrastructure and quality of life.
The KUMAP initiative is seen as a critical step in addressing Kumasi’s urban mobility challenges. The introduction of a BRT system is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce carbon emissions, and provide a more reliable and affordable public transport option for the city’s residents. Furthermore, the project is anticipated to create numerous job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and elevate the overall quality of life in Kumasi and its neighboring areas.
As Kumasi continues to grow as one of Ghana’s major economic hubs, projects like KUMAP are crucial in ensuring that the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with its expansion. The collaboration between the World Bank, the Government of Ghana, and local authorities marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to modernize urban mobility and create a more sustainable future for Kumasi.
The successful implementation of the KUMAP project is expected to set the stage for a transformed Kumasi, improving not just transportation but also the broader urban landscape, making the city a more livable and attractive place for residents and visitors alike.
About KUMAP:
The Kumasi Urban Mobility Accessibility Project (KUMAP) is a large-scale initiative aimed at improving urban mobility in Kumasi, Ghana’s second-largest city. The project focuses on the introduction of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system designed to alleviate traffic congestion, improve travel efficiency, and promote environmental sustainability. With the support of the World Bank and other stakeholders, KUMAP is set to transform Kumasi’s transport infrastructure and contribute to the city’s sustainable urban development.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie
