Kumasi Mayor calls for stronger KMA-KNUST partnership to drive city development

The Mayor of Kumasi, Mr Richard Kwasi Ofori Boadi Agyemang, has called for a stronger partnership between the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to tackle pressing urban challenges and drive sustainable development.

The Mayor made the call on Wednesday, when he received a KNUST delegation led by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Christian Agyare, at the Assembly.

He identified waste management, traffic congestion, street lighting, landscaping, and technological gaps as key areas where collaboration between academia and local government can deliver practical, lasting solutions.

He noted that the future of Kumasi lies in strong partnerships, innovative ideas, and practical solutions, adding that research and innovation must be channelled toward addressing the city's real-life challenges.

The Mayor further stated that practical solutions would help create a cleaner, safer, and more attractive city while supporting investment, job creation, and sustainable development.

He also urged both institutions to leverage the global standing of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, to attract investors and explore growth opportunities for the Garden City.

In response, Prof. Christian Agyare welcomed the proposal and reaffirmed KNUST’s readiness to collaborate with the KMA.

However, he called for the partnership to be formally structured to ensure clear roles and sustained impact.

The meeting signals a renewed commitment by the KMA and KNUST to align research, innovation, and local governance to meet the city’s development needs.