Kumasi
Second largest city in Ghana and historic capital of the Asante Empire.
Kumasi serves as the capital of both the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and the Ashanti Region of Ghana. It was once the capital of the Asante Empire, an empire that at its height controlled much of what is now Ghana and the Ivory Coast. The city continues to be the official residence of the Asantehene. Known as a major center for commerce, trade, and economic activity, Kumasi hosts the Kejetia Market, the largest market in all of West Africa. Its many gardens and forested areas have earned it the nickname "The Garden City."
- Climate
- Tropical savanna (Köppen Aw) with two rainy seasons
- Major ethnic groups
- Asante, Dagombas, Mole-Dagbon, Ewe
- Mayor (as of 2025)
- Ofori-Agyeman Boadi
- Nicknames
- The Garden City, Osei-Krom (Oseikrom)
- Key market
- Kejetia Market (largest in West Africa)
Lore & Background
European sources in the late 19th century gave contrasting descriptions: F.
Reader's Guide
Kumasi holds enduring significance as the cultural and political heart of the Ashanti people and as a major economic engine for Ghana and West Africa. Its role as the capital of the Asante Empire established it as a center of power and culture, a legacy that continues with the city remaining the seat of the Asantehene. Economically, Kumasi is a commercial and trading hub, hosting the largest market in West Africa, the Kejetia Market, and housing half of the country's timber processing. The city is also the center of Asante culture, attracting many visitors, and is home to a growing film industry, Kumawood, which focuses on local-themed stories in Twi. Key institutions located in Kumasi include the Centre for National Culture, Wesley College of Education, and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
Did You Know?
- Kumasi's name derives from the Twi word 'Kumase', meaning 'under the kum tree'.
- Kumasi is home to the biggest market in West Africa: the Kejetia Market.
- Half of Ghana's timber processing takes place in Kumasi.
More in Cities And Settlements 1-17
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