Kumasi

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BOWDICH(1819) p344 PLATE 9 - COOMASSIE, PART OF ADAM STREET

Lake Bosumtwi1, Ghana

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BOWDICH(1819) p364 PLATE 11 - SKETCH OF COOMASSIE

Burning of Coomassie (Kumasi)

The National Archives UK - CO 1069-37-39

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Kumasi is a city in Ghana, serving as the capital of the Ashanti Region. It is the second-largest city in the country after the capital, Accra. Known as "The Garden City" due to its many beautiful species of flowers and plants, Kumasi is an important center for Ghanaian culture and history.

History

Kumasi has a rich history, closely linked with the Ashanti Empire, which was one of the most powerful states in West Africa from the 18th to the late 19th century. The city was established in the 17th century by the Asantehene (King) Osei Tutu and the priest Komfo Anokye, with the legendary Golden Stool serving as the symbol of unity for the Ashanti people. Kumasi was the capital of the Ashanti Confederacy, playing a crucial role in the resistance against British colonial rule, notably during the Anglo-Ashanti Wars.

Geography

Kumasi is located in the south-central part of Ghana, surrounded by hills and situated near Lake Bosomtwe, the only natural lake in Ghana. The city experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, with a relatively high precipitation during the rainy season and a dry season that is markedly cooler.

Economy

The economy of Kumasi is diverse, with significant contributions from gold mining and agriculture. The city is known for its gold jewelry and other gold artifacts, which are highly valued in Ghanaian culture. Kumasi is also a major site for timber processing and is home to one of the largest markets in West Africa, the Kejetia Market, where a wide variety of goods, including traditional Ghanaian crafts and textiles, are sold.

Culture

Kumasi is often considered the cultural heartbeat of Ghana. It is home to the Manhyia Palace, the seat of the Asantehene of Asanteman, and the palace complex includes a museum that houses a collection of Ashanti royal artifacts. The city celebrates the Akwasidae Festival every six weeks, in accordance with the Ashanti calendar, which is a vibrant display of Ashanti culture, including drumming, dancing, and storytelling.

Education

Kumasi is an educational hub in Ghana, hosting several institutions of higher learning. The most notable is the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), one of the premier science and technology universities in West Africa. The city also has a range of secondary and primary schools, both public and private.

Transport

Kumasi is well connected by road and rail to Accra and other parts of Ghana. The city has a public transport system that includes buses and shared taxis. The Kumasi Airport serves domestic flights, with plans for expansion to handle international flights in the future.

Challenges

Despite its many attractions, Kumasi faces several urban challenges, including managing rapid population growth, urban sprawl, and ensuring sustainable development. Issues such as traffic congestion, waste management, and maintaining green spaces are ongoing concerns for city planners.