Newly confirmed Kumasi Metropolitan Chief Executive, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, has issued a firm directive to traders occupying pavements in the Central Business District and Central Market to vacate immediately, as the city prepares for a major decongestion exercise.
The move is part of a broader plan to restore order and improve movement within the metropolis, which has long struggled with overcrowding and disorder in its commercial areas.
Speaking after his confirmation on Thursday, April 10, the Kumasi Mayor revealed that the exercise will begin next week. He assured the public that although the military will not be involved, innovative strategies will be adopted to reclaim public spaces without disrupting business operations.
Mr. Ofori Agyemang Boadi also highlighted his intention to fast-track stalled infrastructure projects, including the Krofrom Market and the second phase of the Central Market redevelopment. He pledged to seek updates from the regional minister and expressed optimism that the Kejetia Market project will be completed before the end of President Mahama’s administration.
On sanitation, he expressed concern over the level of indiscipline in Kumasi and vowed to strictly enforce KMA by-laws.
“Kumasi needs discipline and cooperation,” he stated. “If you are selling on pavements or in the middle of dual carriageways, especially in the city center, please vacate. Starting Wednesday, we will take to the streets and clean up the city.”
He added that while the operation would not rely on military force, efforts would be made to find creative ways to reorganize traders, particularly in the bustling Adum area.
“Everyone wants to sell at Adum. We’ll find a smart way to manage that space without chaos,” he said.
