President Nana Akufo-Addo, with help from Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, officially opened the Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi.
With the airport’s opening, the Ashanti Region and the northern part of Ghana have achieved a significant milestone because residents will no longer need to travel to Accra in order to board international flights. The renovated airport, formerly called the Kumasi International Airport, is expected to completely transform air travel in the area.
The project comprises a new terminal building, parking areas, VVIP and VIP lounges, restaurants, commercial areas, boarding gates and a power station for 66 million euros. The second phase of the project started in May 2018 and was finished in 24 months.
The airport is now prepared for international flights despite financial difficulties. The third and final phase is expected to be completed by June 2024.
The transformation of the Kumasi Airport into an international hub is of great significance, as President Akufo-Addo described it as the realisation of a vision. He emphasised the airport’s contribution to the development of Ghana’s tourism industry, international trade, business relationships, and cross-cultural interactions in the Ashanti Region.
The President was commended by Juabenhene Nana Otuo Siribuor II, the Asantehene, for keeping his word to the Ashanti people. He highlighted how the airport could lower travel expenses and improve connections between Kumasi and other areas.
Many stakeholders, including the Car Rentals Association of Ghana, have expressed excitement about the airport’s opening. Michael Sarpong, the association’s president, expressed enthusiasm for the new business opportunities the airport will bring.
According to Transport Minister Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, commercial operations will start once the remaining construction projects—such as the taxi link and runway extension—are completed. Residents are eager to enjoy the full benefits of the new facility. In order to guarantee seamless operations, he promised that any problems that arose during this time would be quickly resolved.
Overall, the opening of the Prempeh I International Airport highlights Ghana’s commitment to infrastructure development and progress and represents a major advancement in the aviation industry.
Source: Pulse Ghana