Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye (William Kojo Agyemang-Bonsu), Chief of Asafo and Head of the Akwamu Divisional Council, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Governing Council of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. His appointment marks the continuation of a career dedicated to public service, sustainable development, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
With a résumé that spans international climate negotiations, national environmental policy-making, and grassroots leadership, Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye brings a rare depth of experience to the council. His presence is expected to enrich the strategic direction of the institution, anchoring it in values of accountability, innovation, and community-focused growth.
From chemistry to chieftaincy
Born in 1959, William Kojo Agyemang-Bonsu’s early life was steeped in the values of discipline and scholarship. He attended Konongo-Odumasi Secondary School, excelling in the sciences before entering Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where he earned a BSc in Chemistry. His passion for environmental matters led him to the Norwegian Institute of Technology, where he specialized in Chemical Engineering, a decision that would shape the rest of his professional life.
Upon returning to Ghana, Agyemang-Bonsu joined the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he played a vital role in shaping Ghana’s environmental policies. His vision and competence soon found a global platform when he was appointed to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) secretariat in Bonn, Germany.
Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye Agyemang-Bonsu is also the CEO of AB-Hydrogen Ghana Ltd, a company focused on advancing clean energy solutions through hydrogen technology. Under his leadership, the company aims to contribute to Ghana’s transition to sustainable energy by promoting innovative, low-carbon alternatives in line with global climate goals.
As a Manager for Climate Change, he worked at the intersection of science, diplomacy, and policy, advocating for circular economy models and the transition to clean energy solutions, including hydrogen-based technologies.
Scholarship meets stewardship
In addition to his civil service and international work, Agyemang-Bonsu has made significant scholarly contributions. He has authored and co-authored numerous academic papers focused on sustainable development, climate governance, and multi-sector environmental planning. One of his notable works includes a paper on empowering local authorities across Africa to engage in meaningful climate action, an effort that speaks to his consistent belief in inclusive, locally-driven development.
The Asafo Stool: Tradition in progressive hands
On December 17, 2020, Agyemang-Bonsu was enstooled as Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye, the traditional ruler of Asafo in Kumasi. His leadership philosophy as chief is deeply rooted in service, humility, and a belief that tradition and development must go hand-in-hand. He has publicly called for stronger partnerships between traditional authorities and religious institutions, viewing both as moral and civic pillars capable of catalyzing community transformation.
Under his leadership, the Asafo Traditional Council has initiated several community-centered programs, while Akyamfoɔ has personally donated to causes such as educational outreach and church development.
A chairman for a new era
Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye’s appointment as Chairman of the Governing Council of KNUST is widely seen as a strategic move to integrate ethical leadership, environmental awareness, and cultural sensitivity into institutional governance. Known for his consensus-building approach and his insistence on evidence-based decision-making, his leadership is expected to foster innovation while remaining grounded in social responsibility.
