The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged the World Bank to enhance its collaboration with the Manhyia Palace in order to expedite the execution of significant development projects that are essential for transforming the economic and social fabric of Kumasi.
In a meeting held with World Bank representatives at the Manhyia Palace on January 10, 2025, the Asantehene voiced his concerns regarding the delays affecting critical initiatives, notably the Kumasi Rapid Transport Project and the strategies to tackle Ghana’s energy issues.
“Kumasi serves as the commercial center of Ghana; however, the rising population and traffic congestion are severely impacting the economy. The proposed 28-kilometre rapid transport line from Ejisu to Abuakwa has the potential to alleviate these challenges by improving the movement of goods and people while generating vital employment opportunities,” he remarked.
The Asantehene criticized the bureaucratic obstacles hindering the Kumasi Rapid Transport Project, which has remained stagnant for almost a decade since its initiation under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the subsequent involvement of the World Bank. He advocated for a decentralized project management approach to improve efficiency.
“We cannot continue to manage projects for Kumasi from Accra. This is impeding progress. We must take ownership of the project and implement it swiftly. Nearly ten years of discussions have passed, and had this project been executed sooner, the resulting benefits in terms of job creation and economic development would have been substantial,” he asserted.
Otumfuo highlighted the necessity of a community-oriented approach, expressing his unwillingness to rely solely on political leaders for development. “I cannot rely on politicians for development; I do not wish to depend on politicians for development. Therefore, let us establish a social contract and proceed accordingly,” he emphasized.
In addressing the energy challenges faced by Ghana, Otumfuo emphasized the significant impact of excessive energy payments on the nation’s economy.
“In 2019, we examined Ghana’s energy situation, where the country was incurring costs of $500–$600 million each year for energy that went unused. Currently, I have been informed that this figure has escalated to approximately $1.5 billion. It is imperative that we revisit this matter to consider potential solutions, such as the export of surplus energy to Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Mali,” he stated.
He further expressed concern over previous funding reductions that have adversely affected essential programs, including school feeding initiatives and budgetary support. “In 2019, the $180 million designated for school feeding was retracted, along with the $500 million intended for budgetary support, largely due to energy-related issues. I hope we can reassess these concerns to ensure that Ghana can reap the benefits of these programs,” he remarked.
The World Bank delegation, headed by Ousmane Diagana, Vice President for Western and Central Africa, included Country Director Robert Taliercio and senior experts in urban development, energy, and transportation.
Mr. Diagana conveyed his appreciation to the Asantehene for his valuable insights and reaffirmed the World Bank’s dedication to aiding Ghana’s developmental initiatives.
“We value your leadership and are committed to collaborating closely with the Manhyia Palace and other stakeholders to propel these vital projects forward,” he stated.
The meeting, which included representatives from the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, highlighted the necessity for cooperative solutions to advance stalled development projects in Kumasi and surrounding areas.
