Hon. Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, leader, founder, and presidential candidate of the Movement for Change/Afrafranto Alliance, has pledged to complete the Greater Kumasi Industrial City and Special Economic Zone project at Ejisu if elected president in the December 7 polls.

Speaking during a visit to the Palace of Ejisu Manhene, Nana Afrane Okese IV, on October 3, 2024, Mr Kyerematen emphasized that the project would be a game-changer for Ghana’s industrial and economic future.

“If elected as president, I will build the biggest projects that can turn the fortunes of the country,” Mr Kyerematen declared. He highlighted the importance of the Greater Kumasi Industrial City, stating, “I want every Ghanaian to know that there is something big coming into the country - this project is a massive step toward industrializing our economy.” The $2.5 billion initiative is expected to revolutionize the nation’s industrial sector and create vast employment opportunities.

Alan Kyerematen revealed that the Ejisu Manhene played a pivotal role in drafting the project, which demonstrates their shared vision for the region. “Nana Afrane Okese IV was part of the team that conceptualized this entire project,” he noted. To underscore his commitment to the development of Asanteman and Ejisu, Alan Kyerematen disclosed, “I single-handedly secured $30 million in World Bank funding to get this project started - this is proof that I have Asanteman and Ejisu at heart.”

In addition to the World Bank funding, Mr Alan Kyerematen secured $100 million from the government of the Republic of Korea for the first phase of the project.

He pointed out that while the government has already initiated the Buankra Inland Port, “the port alone cannot move the industrialization agenda I have been championing. That is why the Greater Kumasi Industrial City is needed to truly accelerate our industrial progress.”

Describing the project in an interview after his visit to the Ejisu Palace, Alan Kyerematen said, “This will be the largest industrial project since Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s Tema Industrial City.

It’s a great vision that will revolutionize Ghana’s industrial sector.” He explained that the project would create a high rate of employment, generate government revenue through corporate and income taxes, and boost exports while reducing imports to stabilize the country’s foreign exchange rate.

“This project will not only stabilize our foreign exchange but also reduce import dependency, helping to make the Ashanti Region the industrial hub of West Africa,” Mr Kyerematen emphasized. He added that beyond its economic significance, the project demonstrates his commitment to transforming Ghana and elevating the Ashanti Region’s role in the industrial revolution.

With unemployment now a pressing national security issue, Mr Kyerematen stressed, “This project is not just a vision; it’s essential for the future of Ghana. Beyond 2024, this will be a critical project for our economic stability.” He expressed confidence that the Greater Kumasi Industrial City would drive sustainable growth and create long-term employment opportunities.

The Ejisu Manhene, Nana Afrane Okese IV, endorsed Alan Kyerematen’s bid for the presidency, stating, “I will always support his aim of becoming the president of the republic.” The chief commended Mr Kyerematen’s commitment to industrializing the country and creating lasting change. Today marked the second day of Mr Kyerematen’s 21-day Caravan Tour in his home region, the Ashanti Region, where he continues to engage traditional leaders and communities.

Ghanaians would recall that when Mr Kyerematen resigned as Trade and Industry Minister in January 2023, he led a delegation of World Bank officials to meet with Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, where he briefed the king on the significance of this industrial project. This underscores his long-standing dedication to realizing the vision of transforming the Ashanti Region into an industrial powerhouse.