A strategic plan addressing the mobility needs of Kumasi and 14 surrounding municipalities has received approval for implementation.

The plan, referred to as the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP), is a crucial initiative to alleviate intra-city congestion and improve transportation in the region.

The SUMP was crafted by a government-led Steering Committee, established in 2021 with funding from the French Development Agency (AFB) and development partners.

Over the course of the project, the committee conducted extensive research, gathered data, and engaged in consultations to create a comprehensive mobility blueprint.

Key highlights of the plan include enhancements in public transport and the promotion of non-motorized transportation.

In public transport, the plan calls for developing a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, improving quality bus services, and enhancing the “trotro” operations in Kumasi.

The non-motorized transport aspect encompasses the creation of cycling lanes and sidewalks within new road infrastructure development.

Dr. Williams Ackaah, Head of the Transportation Engineering Division at the Building and Road Research Institute (BRRI) of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), emphasized the need for these transport improvements as Kumasi anticipates significant population growth and urban sprawl.

By 2030, the city will have 4.2 million inhabitants, leading to increased travel lengths, competition for urban space, and potential congestion issues.

While the SUMP's plans are considered feasible, the challenge lies in their implementation. Past plans developed with support from development partners have faced difficulties during road construction projects.

Dr. Ackaah called on the government and donor agencies to work diligently to ensure the full execution of these new plans, which have the potential to reduce congestion, improve air quality, limit greenhouse gas emissions, and create a better urban environment.

Dr. Christope Cottet, Country Director for Ghana and Liberia at AFB, expressed satisfaction with the long-term mobility plan, considering it a game-changer for Kumasi's congestion situation. He expressed hope that city authorities would work towards its sustainable implementation.

The SUMP aims to improve mobility, ease congestion, and enhance the overall transportation system in Kumasi and its peripheral municipalities.