Since Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, popularly known as King Zuba, became Mayor of Kumasi in April 2025, his administration has prioritized restoring order in the city. The Mayor's efforts focus on reclaiming public spaces, improving sanitation, and enhancing security. King Zuba's approach has been to tackle long-standing issues such as unauthorized structures on pavements and in public spaces. The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has been actively engaged in removing these structures and enforcing regulations. This move aims to promote a more organized and functional urban environment.
The KMA has undertaken several clean-up exercises and desilted drains to address Kumasi's sanitation problems. In 2026, Mayor King Zuba announced the revival of community sanitation guards, known as Nsamansaman, and disclosed that sanitation offenders had been taken to court. This renewed effort seeks to change the city's long-standing habit of using drains as refuse containers. By tackling these issues, the Mayor aims to break the cycle of flooding and improve overall cleanliness in Kumasi. The community's participation is crucial in sustaining these efforts and ensuring a cleaner environment.
Improving street lighting is another key area of focus for the King Zuba administration. By January 2026, the KMA had installed 240 solar-powered streetlights and repaired defective conventional lights. This upgrade not only enhances visibility but also contributes to security, commerce, and public confidence. A well-lit city is less conducive to crime, and the new streetlights are expected to have a positive impact on the community. The Mayor's attention to this detail demonstrates his commitment to creating a safer and more vibrant urban environment.
Security has also been a priority, with the KMA collaborating with security agencies to enhance patrols and improve police infrastructure. Additionally, the Mayor has taken steps to address unauthorized uses of public school lands. After inspections revealed trading, mechanic activities, and makeshift accommodations on school property, King Zuba ordered encroachers to vacate. This move underscores the importance of prioritizing public spaces for their intended purposes. By reclaiming school lands, the Mayor aims to ensure that these areas serve their intended purpose and benefit the community.
The King Zuba administration has also introduced standardized prefabricated commercial structures in certain areas, such as around Baba Yara Stadium. This initiative aims to promote a more organized and regulated commercial environment. Furthermore, the Assembly is taking steps to address unapproved and dilapidated billboards. These efforts reflect the Mayor's interest in not only improving the city's functionality but also its aesthetic appeal. By enhancing the urban landscape, King Zuba seeks to create a more attractive and livable city.
Several major projects are underway in Kumasi, including the stalled Kejetia Phase II, which is expected to resume construction soon. The Santasi-Ahodwo-Asokwa corridor project involves collaboration between the central government, agencies, and development partners. While credit for these projects must be shared carefully, the Mayor's leadership has helped to facilitate progress. King Zuba's approach emphasizes the importance of coordination and cooperation in delivering meaningful results. By working together with various stakeholders, the Mayor aims to drive positive change in Kumasi.
While Mayor King Zuba has made significant progress, challenges persist. Filthy corners still exist, traffic congestion remains a pain point, and some traders may return once enforcement officers are absent. Waste disposal remains a structural challenge that requires sustained attention. Nevertheless, the renewed insistence on order and regulation in Kumasi marks a positive shift. The Mayor's efforts have sparked a necessary conversation about the importance of rules and civic responsibility. As Kumasi continues to evolve, the city's residents and leaders must work together to build a more functional, beautiful, and livable urban environment.
Key points
- Mayor King Zuba's administration has prioritized restoring order in Kumasi through various initiatives, including reclaiming public spaces and improving sanitation.
