The Coordinator of the Ashanti Festival 2026, Emmanuel Opoku Anane, has revealed that the ongoing beautification of selected overpasses and interchanges in Kumasi is being financed entirely by private individuals, not government funds.
According to Mr. Anane, the initiative forms part of activities marking Ashanti Fest 2026 and is aimed at transforming public spaces while highlighting the rich cultural heritage and history of the Ashanti Region. He explained that the street art projects, particularly at the Asokwa overpass, are enhancing the city’s visual appeal and positioning Kumasi as a growing hub for tourism and investment.
Speaking to Adom News, Mr. Anane emphasized that the project has also created opportunities for visual arts students across the region to showcase their talents. He cited the Asokwa overpass as a prime example of transformation, noting that an area once associated with hooliganism has now been turned into a vibrant and welcoming environment.
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. With continuous support from individuals and stakeholders, we can expand this initiative to cover all interchanges in the region and further beautify our city,” he said.
He further stressed that the project should inspire other regions to pursue development without partisan considerations, underscoring the importance of unity in national progress.
“This project has shown the world how talented our students are. Good leadership has helped uncover and promote these talents within the region,” he added.
A philanthropist, Adams Kwaku Ofori, who contributed both financially and in kind to the initiative, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. He noted that the stretch, once considered unsafe at night, has been transformed into an attractive and environmentally friendly space.
“I have used this stretch for years. Passing here at night used to be risky, but now the area is beautiful and safe. I hope to see similar developments at other interchanges,” he remarked.
Residents around the Asokwa overpass have also praised the initiative, citing improved security and a noticeable reduction in hooligan activities in the area.
