The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has strengthened its partnership with Aalto University in Finland to advance the "Green Kumasi" initiative, aimed at restoring the city's status as the "Garden City of West Africa."
The initiative focuses on greenery, intergenerational parks, and urban sanitation management, with targeted interventions in key areas of the metropolis.
Professor Daniel Duah, Dean of the International Programmes Office, highlighted the longstanding collaboration between the two institutions: "Recently, we were informed of Her Royal Highness, Lady Julia Osei Tutu's interest in contributing to the greening and urban sanitation efforts in Kumasi.
This coincided with a visit by Aalto University’s Architecture and Landscape students, leading to the formation of a multidisciplinary team involving KNUST’s Architecture, Business, and Landscape departments to generate innovative ideas towards the project.”
He further mentioned the Manhyia Corridor Project, in partnership with Aalto University, focusing on urban greening and sustainable development from the Airport Roundabout to Manhyia Palace.
Professor Saija Hollmén from Aalto University's Department of Architecture, commended the commitment of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Her Royal Highness Lady Julia for restoring Kumasi to its green state.
She added that the “Green Kumasi” initiative is set to implement specific interventions, with an initial focus on the Manhyia Corridor, spanning from the Airport Roundabout to Manhyia.
"In collaboration with KNUST and other institutions, we have initiated research and educational programs to develop a long-term strategy for reintroducing and maintaining green spaces as a legacy for future generations," she stated.
Professor Hollmén further noted that the initiative aligns with Her Royal Highness’s vision for improving Kumasi’s urban landscape. "This project is dedicated to fulfilling Her Royal Highness’s request for a cleaner, greener Kumasi.
Our team has developed designs and strategies aimed at revitalizing the Manhyia Corridor by integrating greenery, businesses, and cultural heritage. Additionally, we have addressed concerns such as flooding, water purification, and the need for more intergenerational green spaces in our proposal."
Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, commended the proposal, describing it as an innovative approach to sustainable urban development.
She reiterated the role of universities in providing research-based solutions to societal challenges.
"Whenever the word 'sustainability' is mentioned, it captures everyone's attention because we all aspire to create a sustainable world, society, and city," she remarked. "We always affirm that KNUST exists to find solutions to challenges through relevant research and innovation."
She also encouraged the team to incorporate urban roundabout beautification initiatives, intergenerational parks, and sanitation management, which are key priorities of Her Royal Highness Lady Julia, in their designs and proposal to ensure a holistic transformation of Kumasi’s urban landscape.
