Kumasi by the Numbers: Population, 10 Districts, and Transformative Initiatives
Kumasi is not just a city; it is the cultural and economic heartbeat of Ghana, blending history with progress and tradition with modern development.
Known as the pride of the Ashanti Kingdom, Kumasi has grown into a vibrant center for trade, education, and culture.
As Ghana’s second-largest city, Kumasi attracts people from across the country and beyond, drawn by its rich heritage and its promise of growth.
However, like any rapidly urbanizing area, Kumasi faces challenges alongside its achievements.
From its 3.3 million residents to its 10 districts, vibrant markets, and ongoing urban initiatives, the city’s growth reflects both opportunity and complexity.
Kumasi by the numbers highlights it’s role as a cultural, economic, and administrative hub, balancing a rich history with a vision for the future.
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Kumasi: A Fast-Growing City in West Africa
Kumasi is part of a much larger story that begins with its place on the African continent. Located in Ghana, West Africa, the country is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and economic opportunities.
Ghana is strategically positioned along the Gulf of Guinea, making it a central point for trade and travel in the region.
Within Ghana, Kumasi sits in the Ashanti Region, one of the 16 administrative regions of the country.
The Ashanti Region is often referred to as the cultural heart of Ghana, owing to its connection to the historic Ashanti Kingdom. Kumasi serves as the capital of this region and has become its economic and administrative center.
This geographical and cultural significance makes Kumasi a vital part of Ghana’s development, driving both historical pride and future potential.
The 16 Regions of Ghana
- Ashanti
- Greater Accra
- Central
- Eastern
- Western
- Western North
- Volta
- Oti
- Northern
- Savannah
- North East
- Bono
- Bono East
- Ahafo
- Upper East
- Upper West
27 Key Administrative Divisions of the Ashanti Kingdom
- Kumasi
- Mampong
- Bekwai
- Kokofu
- Juaben
- Nsuta
- Offinso
- Ejisu
- Adanse
- Asokore
- Agona
- Bompata
- Domeabra
- Dwaben
- Kenyase
- Kuntanase
- Mampon
- Mo
- Nkoranza
- Nsawkaw
- Sampa
- Sefwi
- Tepa
- Wenchi
- Worawora
- Yamfo
- Berekum
Each paramountcy encompasses various towns and villages and plays a significant role in the cultural and traditional administration of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Kumasi by the Numbers: Population
- Total Population: The most recent population data for Kumasi comes from the 2021 Ghana Population and Housing Census, which recorded over 3.3 million people living in the Kumasi Metropolitan Area.
- Population Growth: With an annual growth rate of 5.6%, Kumasi’s population is projected to reach approximately 4.1 million by 2025 and could surpass 5.4 million by 2030. These projections reflect Kumasi’s rapid urbanization and its role as one of the fastest-growing cities in West Africa.
- Size and Density: Kumasi spans 254 square kilometers, making it one of the most densely populated cities in Ghana.
The city includes a mix of sub-metropolitan hubs, residential neighborhoods, and peri-urban areas. Peri-urban areas are located at the edges of the city and blend urban and rural characteristics.
These zones often serve as transitional areas where city expansion meets more open, undeveloped land, creating a mix of urban activity and rural landscapes.
This urban layout contributes to Kumasi’s vibrant structure and supports its connectivity and administrative efficiency.
While the 2021 Census provides the most recent official population data, ongoing growth trends highlight Kumasi’s evolving importance as a cultural and economic hub.
The 10 Districts of Kumasi
Kumasi is divided into districts, towns, neighborhoods, and villages. A district is a larger section of the city, containing smaller parts like towns or neighborhoods.
Some areas may also include villages, which are smaller and less developed than neighborhoods.
Neighborhoods in Kumasi typically have homes, shops, schools, and markets close together.
Towns are more spread out, and villages often feature fewer buildings and more open spaces, such as farms or fields.
Dividing the city into these parts makes it easier to manage essential services like roads, schools, water, and electricity.
Kumasi functions like a puzzle, where each district, town, neighborhood, and village plays a role in creating the complete city.
Kumasi is made up of 10 districts, each with its own towns and features:
Bantama
- Population: Around 300,000 people.
- Main Areas: Sofoline, Abrepo Junction.
- Health District: Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) is located in Bantama and serves as a referral hospital for Kumasi and its surrounding peri-urban communities.
Suame
- Population: About 280,000 people.
- Known For: Suame Magazine, a large industrial area.
Tafo
- Population: Over 250,000 people.
- Key Areas: Old Tafo, Pankrono.
- Nearby Area: Dichemso is part of New Tafo.
Manhyia
- Population: Close to 230,000 people.
- Features: Manhyia Palace, home of the Asantehene.
- Health District: The Manhyia Hospital, located in Ashanti Newtown near the Manhyia Palace, serves Manhyia, Krofrom, Ashanti Newtown, Aboabo, and Asawasi communities.
Asawase
- Population: About 220,000 people.
- Main Areas: Aboabo, Sawaba.
Oforikrom
- Population: Over 350,000 people.
- Key Towns: Ayeduase, Kentinkrono.
Asokwa
- Population: Around 290,000 people.
- Highlights: Ahinsan, Kaase.
- Nearby Area: Gyinase is part of Asokwa.
- Health District: Kumasi South Hospital (KSH), located at Chirapatre, serves residents of Ahensan, Atonsu, Esreso, Gyenyase, and Kaase.
Subin
- Population: About 180,000 people.
- Known For: Central Market, Adum (a major business area).
- Nearby Area: Adum is part of Subin.
Nhyiaeso
- Population: Over 160,000 people.
- Features: Wealthy neighborhoods and quiet areas.
- Nearby Area: Danyame is located around Nhyiaeso.
Kwadaso
- Population: Around 210,000 people.
- Key Towns: Tanoso, Apatrapa.
- Health District: Suntreso Government Hospital, located at North Suntreso, serves areas including North and South Suntreso, Patasi Estate, Kwadaso, Adoato, Asuoyeboa, Breman, and Suame.
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly Shapes the City
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) plays a vital role in managing Kumasi’s growth and ensuring its smooth operation.
From urban planning and waste management to cultural preservation and economic development, the KMA is at the heart of Kumasi’s progress.
Its work includes maintaining roads, supporting education and healthcare, and promoting Kumasi’s rich cultural heritage.
However, with rapid urbanization and a growing population, the KMA faces challenges such as overcrowding and funding shortages.
What Makes Kumasi Special
- Roads: Kumasi connects many parts of Ghana with major highways. However, some roads in the city face challenges like potholes, uneven surfaces, and dusty conditions, which can make travel difficult in certain areas.
- Schools: The city has top schools, including KNUST, with over 50,000 students. Other institutions, such as teacher training colleges and technical schools, contribute to making Kumasi a hub for education. Yet, access to quality education may still vary depending on resources and location.
- Markets: The Kejetia-Central Market is one of Africa’s largest, providing goods and services to thousands daily. Smaller markets across the districts also support local economies, though some might say the busy nature of these markets can feel overwhelming or challenging for certain visitors or vendors.
- Jobs: Suame Magazine alone provides work for over 200,000 artisans, and industries like cocoa processing and timber thrive. However, unemployment and underemployment remain concerns for many, especially young people seeking modern job opportunities.
While Kumasi holds a special place in Ghana’s cultural and economic landscape, it’s important to recognize that the city is a work in progress.
Some may view certain aspects as falling short or challenging, but Kumasi continues to evolve and improve.
Its rich history and potential for growth make it a place of opportunity, even as it faces the realities of development.
Why Kumasi Stands Out
- Historical Importance: Kumasi is the historical and current capital of the Ashanti Kingdom, with the Manhyia Palace symbolizing its rich heritage. It remains a center of cultural pride and continues to play a vital role in the Ashanti Region.
- Cultural Festivals: Events like the Akwasidae Festival showcase Ashanti traditions and attract visitors from around the world.
- Environmental Efforts: Kumasi’s status as the “Garden City” is upheld through tree-planting projects and green spaces designed to maintain its lush environment.
- Healthcare: Kumasi is home to several major hospitals, including Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, which serves the entire region. However, access to healthcare can vary. While private clinics offer quick services, public hospitals and clinics often experience long wait times due to high demand. Smaller clinics and health centers across the city help improve access to healthcare for residents.
- Tourism: Kumasi attracts tourists with its mix of cultural landmarks, markets, and historical sites. Visitors come to experience the Ashanti Kingdom’s traditions and vibrant lifestyle.
Transportation Development
Kumasi’s roads and public transport systems are continuously evolving to address the needs of its rapidly growing population.
As one of Ghana’s largest cities, the increasing urbanization has led to challenges like traffic congestion, travel delays, and uneven infrastructure.
Recognizing these issues, significant steps are being taken to enhance mobility within the city.
A key initiative is the Kumasi Urban Mobility Accessibility Project (KUMAP), which aims to introduce an efficient and integrated transport system across Kumasi and its surrounding districts, including Ejisu, Kwadaso, Oforikrom, and Atwima Kwabiagya South.
Supported by the World Bank, this project includes the development of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, designed to reduce travel times, improve safety, and provide more convenient transportation options for residents.
The BRT system is expected to transform Kumasi’s transport network by alleviating traffic congestion and improving accessibility to essential services.
During discussions with local leaders, including the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the project’s potential to support sustainable urban development and inclusive growth was highlighted.
Once implemented, KUMAP is set to become a critical component of Kumasi’s long-term urban strategy, promoting mobility and economic productivity in the region.
These ongoing efforts show Kumasi’s commitment to improving transportation systems, ensuring that the city remains connected, accessible, and prepared for its future as a thriving urban hub.
“I am committed to solving problems for town people across the state under my leadership.” – Hon Samuel Pyne, Mayor
Kumasi stands at the crossroads of history and progress, shaping Ghana’s path toward growth and innovation.
As a city deeply rooted in tradition yet open to modern advancements, it continues to play a vital role in the Ashanti Region and the nation as a whole.
From its vibrant markets to its cultural landmarks, Kumasi’s influence stretches far beyond its borders, inspiring those who live there and those who visit.
With ongoing developments in infrastructure, education, and urban planning, Kumasi remains a city full of promise, balancing its heritage with a forward-thinking vision for the future.
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