Ashanti Regional Minister Tours Prempeh I Airport Expansion: "Kumasi Will Become Aviation Hub"

The Ashanti Region is getting ready to soar higher as government pushes forward with ambitious plans to transform Kumasi into a major aviation powerhouse that could reshape commerce across West Africa.

Dr Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, led a crucial inspection tour of the ongoing expansion works at Prempeh I International Airport, signaling government's serious intent to elevate Kumasi's status as a regional aviation and commercial center. The high-level visit on Friday brought together key aviation stakeholders, including the Board Chairman, Managing Director, and Board Members of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), to assess progress on what many consider a game-changing infrastructure project for the region.

The inspection focused on two pivotal developments that could redefine air travel and business in the Ashanti Region: the runway expansion project and the broader Airport City development initiative.

These aren't just construction projects—they represent Ghana's ambition to position Kumasi as a strategic hub for aviation, logistics, and commerce, not just within the country but across the entire West African sub-region. The expansion aims to accommodate larger aircraft, increase flight frequencies, and ultimately boost both passenger and cargo traffic through the Garden City.

"The runway expansion and Airport City development are transformational projects that will unlock significant economic opportunities for Kumasi and the entire Ashanti Region," Dr Amoakohene emphasized during the inspection.

The Airport City concept goes far beyond just extending a runway. It envisions creating an entire ecosystem around the airport—think hotels, business centers, logistics hubs, shopping facilities, and other commercial ventures that leverage the airport's presence. This model has proven successful in cities worldwide, turning airports into economic engines that generate employment and attract investment.

For Kumasi, a city already known as Ghana's commercial nerve center, the Airport City development could amplify its economic clout significantly. The project promises to create thousands of jobs, from construction workers today to hospitality staff, logistics professionals, and business operators tomorrow.

Beyond inspecting concrete and steel, Dr Amoakohene and the GACL delegation took time for something equally important—talking with the people who keep the airport running daily. They held a staff durbar and open forum with airport management and workers, creating space for honest conversations about operations, challenges, and aspirations.

This engagement allowed staff members to voice their concerns, share feedback on operational issues, and discuss matters affecting their welfare and the airport's efficiency. In an era where infrastructure projects sometimes overlook the human element, this approach stood out.

The Regional Minister stressed that such dialogues are essential for building strong institutions and ensuring the aviation sector delivers sustainable service to Ghanaians. After all, world-class infrastructure means little without motivated, well-supported staff to operate it.

Dr Amoakohene made clear connections between the Kumasi airport expansion and President John Mahama's broader vision for Ghana's development. The projects fit squarely within government's agenda to modernize strategic national infrastructure, expand regional connectivity, and drive economic growth.

The minister specifically referenced the administration's 24-Hour Economy agenda, which seeks to create round-the-clock economic activity across various sectors. An expanded international airport with improved capacity naturally supports this vision by enabling more flights, better cargo handling, and increased business activity at all hours.

The Regional Minister didn't miss the opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of those making the project possible. He commended the Board, management, and staff of GACL for their professionalism and dedication, recognizing that major infrastructure developments require sustained commitment from everyone involved.

More importantly, Dr Amoakohene assured all stakeholders of government's continued support for the projects. He reaffirmed the administration's commitment to working collaboratively with everyone involved to ensure timely completion and effective utilization of these facilities.

When completed, the expanded Prempeh I International Airport could transform how the Ashanti Region connects with the rest of Ghana, Africa, and the world. Better aviation infrastructure means easier business travel, improved tourism potential, faster cargo movement, and enhanced regional integration.

For a region that already contributes significantly to Ghana's economy through trade, manufacturing, and agriculture, improved air connectivity could unlock even greater potential. Investors looking at Ghana might find Kumasi more attractive. Diaspora connections could strengthen. Regional trade could flourish.

As the inspection concluded, one thing became clear: Kumasi's aviation future is taking off, and government is determined to ensure it reaches cruising altitude successfully.