Otumfuo’s Hiahene, Nana Oheneba Boachie-Adjei Woahene, cutting sod to begin the project
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially commissioned the state-of-the-art Kumasi Airport City Project.
Speaking on behalf of the Asantehene at a ceremony, Otumfuo’s Hiahene, Nana Oheneba Boachie-Adjei Woahene II, described the initiative as “the most ambitious private-sector-led development in the history of our city.”
He expressed immense pride in what he called “a life-changing initiative that signals a bold new future for Kumasi and for Ghana.”
Located on a sprawling 50-acre site at the foot of the Prempeh I International Airport, the Kumasi Airport City Project is poised to redefine luxury urban living in the Ashanti Region while serving as a catalyst for urban renewal, job creation, and digital innovation.
The project is expected to be completed within two and a half years and is set to boost the city’s economy.
“This is more than a real estate project,” Otumfuo emphasized. “It is a declaration of intent — a vision to build a modern city of excellence rooted in the history and pride of Asanteman, but boldly reaching out to the future.”
The Asantehene commended the lead developer, Stephen Owusu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HDG Inc., describing him as “a proud son of the Golden Stool” and “a shining example of the entrepreneurial potential of the Ghanaian diaspora.”
“Stephen has shown what is possible when vision is backed by commitment and courage. After many years in the diaspora, where he rose to senior positions in one of the world’s largest retail chains, he decided to bring his knowledge, experience, and resources back home. Today, the result is before us — the Kumasi Airport City Project,” he remarked.
“We must begin a national conversation about self-belief,” he urged. “We must encourage our people to put their money where their mouth is — to invest in the future of Ghana. For that to happen, we need policies that support enterprise, reward hard work, and reduce the risks faced by private investors.”
He acknowledged the government’s efforts in stabilizing the economy and fostering a business-friendly environment and called for continued support for entrepreneurs who are ready to take bold steps in building the nation.
Otumfuo further proposed a strategic partnership between Kumasi Airport City and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to establish a cutting-edge technology hub. This, he noted, would drive Ghana’s digital transformation and empower the country’s youth.
HDG founder, Stephen Owusu, outlined the vision for the city saying, “We are creating an urban space where pedestrians can walk safely on paved walkways without sharing the road with vehicles. All drains will be built underground, roads will include dedicated bike lanes, and the entire environment will be enhanced with abundant greenery.”
President of Miller Holding, Mert Mildon, pledged his company’s unwavering support for the Asantehene’s vision of transforming Kumasi into a modern and vibrant economic hub while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
“We are happy to contribute to the Asantehene’s vision for Kumasi — one that aims to transform the city into a vibrant hub while preserving its cultural heritage,” he stated.
Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, stated that Ghana has a housing deficit of 1.8 million units. In the Ashanti Region alone, the deficit accounts for approximately 5.4% of the national figure. Many people lack access to decent and suitable housing, which affects various aspects of society, including urban and rural beautification, sanitation, and overall quality of life.
He emphasized that housing and its related infrastructure — especially in the context of regional and city planning — is something the government takes very seriously.
By David Afum, Kumasi