In the 2026 Budget Statement read by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Ashanti Region stands to gain from a slate of high-impact developments spanning energy, roads, housing, governance, industry, tourism, and health.
The measures are designed to accelerate growth, job creation, and better public services for residents across Kumasi and surrounding districts.
Energy and Infrastructure Development
• Two gas-fired plants are advancing in Kumasi: AKSA Energy (350 MW) and CENIT Energy (300 MW). Officials expect the first units to come online in 2026, signaling a notable boost in regional power supply.
• The region has already seen the installation of over 1,900 solar streetlights, with a procurement plan for an additional 10,000 smart solar units slated for 2026. The initiative aims to improve street-level lighting, safety, and energy efficiency.
Roads and Transport Projects
• The Accra-Kumasi Expressway, a six-lane bi-directional Class A highway stretching 198.7 kilometers, is a centerpiece of the Big Push Infrastructure Programme.
The project promises to cut travel time by roughly half, reduce transport costs by about 40%, and generate more than 30,000 direct and indirect jobs.
• Construction of the 300-kilometer Eastern Railway Line from Accra to Kumasi is scheduled to begin in 2026, a move expected to bolster trade, freight movement, and regional integration.
Housing and Social Infrastructure
• Under the Revised National Affordable Housing Programme, 10,000 housing units will be constructed across Greater Accra, Ashanti, and the Northern Regions, with delivery projected through 2026.
• The Rent-to-Own Scheme targets 10,000 new low- and middle-income residents in the Ashanti Region, expanding access to affordable housing options.Local Governance and Development Expenditure
• The Ashanti Region’s Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) face a total expenditure ceiling of GH¢496,440,543 for 2026.
The budget covers compensation, goods and services, and capital expenditure for 43 MMDAs, including Kumasi, Obuasi, Asokwa, Juaben, and others.
Industry, Commerce, and Tourism
• The Ministry of Trade and Industry has earmarked investments in Greater Kumasi intended to strengthen local industry links and manufacturing value chains.
- Government to commence site acquisition and design of a second national theatre in Kumasi.
- Government to establish the film Fund to revive the film industry such as Kumawood and other film associations
- Again, government to establish Creative Arts Fund for the arts, music, fashion, food and other creative sectors.
Health Priorities for the Ashanti Region in 2026
• Completion of the Sewua Regional Hospital and the Komfo Anokye Maternity and Children’s Block.
• Progress on Agenda 111 hospital projects within the region, enhancing tertiary and referral care capacity.
• Rehabilitation and equipment upgrades for key district and municipal health facilities to upgrade service delivery.
• Deployment of digital health systems and improved medical logistics to streamline patient care and supply chains.
• Expanded recruitment and training of health personnel to support the enlarged health infrastructure.What this means for Ashanti residents
The package aims to shorten travel times, reduce costs, and expand access to essential services.
The energy upgrades are expected to improve reliability for households and businesses, while the road and rail projects should spur commerce and regional connectivity.
Affordable housing initiatives address housing deficits and provide pathways to homeownership for low- and middle-income families.
Strengthened health infrastructure and digital systems are poised to elevate patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency across districts.
Source: www.Kumasimail.com
