Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA): The Push for Smarter Growth and Better Services
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Kumasi is growing fast, and the numbers show it. People are moving in from across Ghana and beyond, looking for a place to live, work, and invest.
As Accra becomes more crowded, Kumasi is stepping into a bigger role. This shift places greater responsibility on the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) to manage growth while preserving what makes Kumasi special: its culture, history, and identity.
The KMA oversees the central areas of Kumasi, including places like Bantama, Manhyia, and Nhyiaeso.
Other areas such as Asokwa, Kwadaso, and Oforikrom now operate as separate municipal assemblies with their own MCEs.
Understanding this local structure helps explain the KMA’s role and why its work is more important now than ever.
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The Purpose of the KMA
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) is the local government authority responsible for the city of Kumasi and its surrounding areas.
It manages the city’s day-to-day administration, development, and services.
The current Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, works with elected assembly members and city officials to set goals, implement policies, and address community needs.
Traditional and modern governance coexist in Kumasi. The KMA handles formal administration. The Asantemanhyiamu, also known as the Asanteman Traditional Council, brings together the Asantehene and regional chiefs to guide cultural leadership, land matters, and chieftaincy affairs. Each plays a distinct role in the city’s progress.
KMA Logo and What It Represents
The official KMA logo features a green shield flanked by leafy branches, two blue birds, and a symbolic top element above the Adinkra-inspired motto “Nyame Nwu Na Mawu” (“God won’t die for me to die”).
The design reflects spiritual confidence, cultural pride, and Kumasi’s deep connection to tradition.
Remembering a Long-Serving Mayor
Barima Nana Akwasi Agyeman, a well-known leader and member of the Asante Royal family, served as Mayor of Kumasi and Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly for over 20 years.
He served the city longer than anyone else in that role. He passed away in 2020 at the age of 86 and is remembered for his long service and his connection to both traditional and civic leadership in Kumasi.
Key Functions of the KMA
Urban Planning and Development
The KMA develops and enforces plans to guide the growth of Kumasi.
It ensures that new housing, businesses, and roads are built according to regulations, promoting organized development.
Key projects include zoning laws to manage land use and the creation of modern residential areas to address housing shortages.
Infrastructure Maintenance
The Assembly oversees public facilities, including roads, bridges, drainage systems, and parks.
It focuses on improving the city’s transportation network to reduce congestion and improve connectivity.
Ongoing efforts include upgrading major highways and creating more pedestrian-friendly zones in busy areas.
Sanitation and Waste Management
The KMA handles waste collection and disposal across Kumasi.
It runs programs to educate residents on proper waste management and sanitation practices.
Initiatives like waste recycling plants and community cleanup campaigns aim to improve the city’s environment.
Some areas no longer under KMA include:
- Asokwa Municipal Assembly
- Kwadaso Municipal Assembly
- Oforikrom Municipal Assembly
- Suame Municipal AssemblyTafo Municipal Assembly
These areas are part of Greater Kumasi, but each has its own assembly and MCE.
Revenue Collection
The Assembly generates funds through property rates, market tolls, and business taxes.
These funds are used to improve public services and infrastructure.
Digital payment systems have streamlined revenue collection and improved transparency.
Education and Health Services
The KMA supports public schools and healthcare facilities to meet the needs of the growing population.
It also promotes programs for public health awareness, including vaccination drives and sanitation workshops.
Partnerships with NGOs have led to school renovations and the supply of essential medical equipment.
Economic Development
The Assembly encourages investment in key sectors like trade, agriculture, and tourism.
It works closely with Suame Magazine and other industrial areas to support artisans and entrepreneurs.
Programs that provide access to microloans have helped boost small businesses and local job creation.
Cultural and Tourism Promotion
The KMA plays a key role in preserving Kumasi’s cultural heritage and promoting tourism.
Events like the Akwasidae Festival, which celebrate Ashanti traditions, are supported by the Assembly.
Tourist-friendly efforts, such as improving access to cultural landmarks and producing visitor guides, are ongoing.
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KMA’s Impact on Kumasi
The KMA has introduced modern waste systems to reduce pollution and address sanitation challenges.
It has partnered with international organizations to support road upgrades, market infrastructure, and healthcare facilities.
Urban planning efforts have led to the development of new commercial hubs, expanding access to jobs and services.
The Assembly continues to add more green spaces and climate-friendly projects to support a healthier environment for future generations.
Challenges Faced by the KMA
Despite its efforts, the KMA faces ongoing challenges, including:
- Overcrowding, rapid urbanization, and pressure on infrastructure
- Limited funding for large-scale projects
- Difficulty enforcing zoning and sanitation laws due to limited staff and low public compliance
- Persistent waste issues in some neighborhoods, including illegal dumping and irregular collection
Some residents often blame the KMA for dumsor (power outages), but electricity services are actually managed by national agencies like ECG and GRIDCo. The KMA does not control the city’s power supply.
Looking Ahead
The KMA continues to focus on sustainable development by:
- Expanding road networks to ease traffic and improve access to underserved areas
- Strengthening waste recycling programs to create a cleaner Kumasi
- Supporting job creation for the city’s youth through vocational training and local industry partnerships
- Improving public health systems to reduce wait times and expand access
- Encouraging more community involvement through forums and workshops that address local concerns
“The KMA plays a key role in shaping Kumasi’s future by managing growth, services, and development, while working alongside traditional leaders to keep the city rooted in its culture.”
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly is at the heart of Kumasi’s development. Through its work in urban planning, sanitation, cultural preservation, and economic development, the KMA helps Kumasi remain vibrant and responsive to the needs of its people.
Despite ongoing challenges, the Assembly’s focus on collaboration and sustainability offers real promise for the future.
Want to know what’s happening in your district? The KMA often holds community meetings and forums. Stay informed by checking local updates or visiting the official site for announcements.
Common Questions About the KMA
What does KMA stand for?
KMA stands for Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly. It is the local government body responsible for planning, services, and citywide operations in Kumasi.
How is the KMA different from traditional authority in Kumasi?
The KMA manages formal governance like roads, sanitation, and development. Traditional authority, led by the Asantehene and local chiefs, oversees cultural matters, land decisions, and community customs. Both systems work side by side.
Is Kumasi’s development being planned in a sustainable manner?
Yes. The KMA is implementing smart city strategies, including green spaces, traffic upgrades, and climate-conscious projects, to support long-term development.
What is the KMA’s biggest challenge right now?
Overcrowding, waste issues, and rapid population growth continue to strain the city. Rural-to-urban migration and youth unemployment also create pressure on housing, services, and infrastructure.
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