The third edition of the Ashanti Business Merit Awards and Conference took place at the Lancaster Hotel in Kumasi, bringing together prominent figures from the business, government, and traditional sectors. The event, organised by The Business Executive Media Group, aimed to recognise outstanding contributions by businesses and entrepreneurs in the Ashanti Region. The theme of the forum was "Recognizing Ashanti as Ghana's Central Business Hub." The conference provided a platform for stakeholders to explore investment opportunities and promote Ashanti as a major commercial centre.
Local business leaders were recognised for their achievements, including Evans Oppong, Chief Executive Officer of E-One Trading, who received the award for Most Outstanding Personality in the Distribution of Consumer Goods. The event was attended by traditional authorities, government officials, Members of Parliament, corporate executives, and members of the diplomatic corps. This convergence of influential individuals underscored the significance of the Ashanti Region in Ghana's economic landscape.
The Mayor of Kumasi, Hon. Richard Kwasi Ofori Boadi Agyemang, addressed the gathering, highlighting the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly's efforts to position the city as a clean, sustainable, and business-friendly environment. He acknowledged that Kumasi's growing status as an economic hub had brought challenges, including migration-driven population growth and congestion. The Mayor emphasised the Assembly's commitment to addressing these challenges through infrastructure development and key projects.
One of the major projects being prioritised by the Assembly is the Kejetia/Kumasi Central Market Redevelopment Project, which had stalled. The Mayor disclosed that stakeholder engagements and site inspections had been undertaken to facilitate the project's resumption. Financial and implementation arrangements had been finalised, and he expressed optimism that work on the project would soon resume. This project aims to ease congestion in the Central Business District.
The Mayor also provided updates on the Krofrom Market Project, which has remained stalled since 2007. The Assembly is working to reactivate, remodel, and redesign the facility into a modern, mall-style market. The KMA has secured GH¢100 million to support the project, which will include road works, parking facilities, and additional market blocks. The project is expected to be implemented under a 24-hour programme timeline.
In addition to the Krofrom Market Project, the Mayor disclosed that other local and satellite markets, including the Race Course and Abinkyi markets, were being considered for redevelopment through public-private partnerships. The proposed interventions will focus on improving security perimeters, upgrading road infrastructure, and strengthening monitoring systems to ensure safer commercial activities and promote trade across the metropolis.
The Ashanti Business Merit Awards and Conference serves as a testament to the region's growing importance in Ghana's economy. The event has created a platform for business leaders and stakeholders to network, explore investment opportunities, and promote the Ashanti Region as a hub for commerce and industry. The recognition of outstanding individuals and businesses will continue to inspire excellence and innovation in the region.
Key points
- The 3rd Ashanti Business Merit Awards and Conference was held in Kumasi to celebrate business excellence and highlight the region's investment potential.
- The event recognised outstanding contributions by businesses and entrepreneurs in the Ashanti Region.
- The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly is prioritising infrastructure development and key projects to address challenges brought about by the city's growing status as an economic hub.
