
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has launched a significant demolition exercise at Abrepo Junction to clear the right-of-way for the Suame Interchange project. Supported by military personnel and members of the KMA task force, the operation began on Tuesday morning to ensure that construction for the multi-level interchange can proceed without further delays. The project is a critical component of efforts to modernize Kumasi’s road infrastructure and resolve the long-standing traffic bottlenecks at one of the city's busiest intersections.
During the operation, heavy excavators moved in to dismantle stalls and temporary structures that had encroached on the designated construction zone. Despite the presence of security forces to maintain order, many traders were seen scrambling to salvage their goods and belongings before the machines reached their properties. While the exercise met with some pushback from local business owners, the assembly maintained that the clearance was necessary to facilitate the ongoing construction intended to serve the wider public interest.
KMA Transport Manager, Adu Larbi Sampson, emphasized that the assembly had issued multiple prior notices to the affected traders and property owners, urging them to vacate the area voluntarily. He explained that the current enforcement operation was a necessary step following the expiration of those warnings. Sampson noted that while the assembly is attempting to minimize unnecessary property damage where possible, ensuring full compliance with the project's engineering requirements remains the priority. The task force intends to persist with the exercise until all rights-of-way are fully cleared for the contractors.
Once completed, the Suame Interchange is expected to drastically reduce the hours commuters spend in traffic, facilitating smoother transit through Kumasi and toward the northern parts of Ghana. The project represents a major investment in the region's transport network aimed at enhancing economic activity. The KMA has reiterated its commitment to monitoring the cleared zones to prevent traders from returning, ensuring that the construction timeline for this essential infrastructure project remains on track.