Asantehene Commissions Kumasi Airport City Project, Calls for Renewed Faith in Ghana’s Development

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially commissioned the state-of-the-art Kumasi Airport City Project, issuing a passionate call to Ghanaians — both at home and in the diaspora — to renew their faith in the nation by embracing private investment and innovation as key drivers of national development.

Speaking on behalf of the Asantehene at a colourful and well-attended ceremony, Otumfuo Hiahene, Nana Prof. Oheneba Boachie-Adjei Woahene II, described the initiative as “the most ambitious private-sector-led development in the history of our city.” He expressed immense pride in what he called “a life-changing initiative that signals a bold new future for Kumasi and for Ghana.”

Located on a sprawling 50-acre site at the foot of the Prempeh I International Airport, the Kumasi Airport City Project is poised to redefine luxury urban living in the Ashanti Region while serving as a catalyst for urban renewal, job creation, and digital innovation.

The project is expected to be completed within two and a half years and is set to boost the city’s economy.

“This is more than a real estate project,” Otumfuo emphasized. “It is a declaration of intent — a vision to build a modern city of excellence rooted in the history and pride of Asanteman, but boldly reaching out to the future.”

The Asantehene commended the lead developer, Mr. Stephen Owusu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HDG Inc., describing him as “a proud son of the Golden Stool” and “a shining example of the entrepreneurial potential of the Ghanaian diaspora.”

“Stephen has shown what is possible when vision is backed by commitment and courage. After many years in the diaspora, where he rose to senior positions in one of the world’s largest retail chains, he decided to bring his knowledge, experience, and resources back home. Today, the result is before us — the Kumasi Airport City Project,” he remarked.

The project includes a wide range of high-end residential and commercial facilities such as The Greenwich, a gated community of 80 luxury homes; Kensington Heights, a complex of four 15-storey residential towers offering 750 rooms; and The Cinnamon, a premier commercial and office complex. The development will also feature a Best Western Premier Hotel, shopping malls, restaurants, a medical centre, and educational institutions.

Otumfuo described the initiative as “a smart city of the future” — one built with modern technology to offer convenience, safety, and sustainability. He stressed the need for Ghanaians to take ownership of the country’s development rather than relying solely on external aid.

“We must begin a national conversation about self-belief,” he urged. “We must encourage our people to put their money where their mouth is — to invest in the future of Ghana. For that to happen, we need policies that support enterprise, reward hard work, and reduce the risks faced by private investors.”

He acknowledged the government’s efforts in stabilizing the economy and fostering a business-friendly environment and called for continued support for entrepreneurs who are ready to take bold steps in building the nation.

Otumfuo further proposed a strategic partnership between Kumasi Airport City and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to establish a cutting-edge technology hub. This, he noted, would drive Ghana’s digital transformation and empower the country’s youth.

In a passionate conclusion, he called for unified national support for the project.

“Such landmark developments do more than beautify the landscape. They act as magnets for further investment, inspire bigger dreams, and create real opportunities for our people. Let us all come together — traditional leaders, government, the private sector, and our people — to support this project with pride and purpose,” he stated.

“With confidence in the support of our people and the blessing of the ancestors, I have the honour and pleasure to declare the Kumasi Airport City Project officially launched,” Otumfuo concluded.

Stephen Owusu, the founder of HDG, shared the motivation behind the establishment of the project during the sod-cutting ceremony for the city.

“Many questioned our decision to build in Kumasi,” he revealed. “But I stood firm in my belief that Kumasi deserves every benefit that Accra enjoys.”

He went on to outline the vision for the city: “We are creating an urban space where pedestrians can walk safely on paved walkways without sharing the road with vehicles. All drains will be built underground, roads will include dedicated bike lanes, and the entire environment will be enhanced with abundant greenery.”

Also speaking at the ceremony, the President of Miller Holding, Mr. Mert Mildon, pledged his company’s unwavering support for the Asantehene’s vision of transforming Kumasi into a modern and vibrant economic hub while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Mr. Mildon said his company was proud to be associated with such a visionary initiative. He noted that the project, once completed, would create employment opportunities and serve as a major attraction for both local and foreign investors.

“We are happy to contribute to the Asantehene’s vision for Kumasi — one that aims to transform the city into a vibrant hub while preserving its cultural heritage,” he stated.

He expressed profound gratitude to His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his continuous support for HDG — the development partner behind the project.

Although this is Miller Holding’s first major project in Ghana, Mr. Mildon revealed that the company is committed to expanding its presence in the country, with plans already underway to launch additional developments in both Accra and Kumasi.

On his part, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, stated that Ghana has a housing deficit of 1.8 million units. In the Ashanti Region alone, the deficit accounts for approximately 5.4% of the national figure. Many people lack access to decent and suitable housing, which affects various aspects of society, including urban and rural beautification, sanitation, and overall quality of life.

He emphasized that housing and its related infrastructure — especially in the context of regional and city planning — is something the government takes very seriously.

“In this region, about 40% of residents live in rented apartments, while the remaining 60% live in their own homes. Our concern as a government is the growing trend of putting up buildings without regard for the established laws and regulations,” he added.