Transport investments and the changing space economy in Kumasi, Ghana

Abstract

In many African cities, major public transport investments result in mixed land use decisions by private residents. The economic and planning implications of these private land-use decisions are not fully understood; and hence not taken advantage of. Using Kumasi, the second largest city in Ghana, this study explores the range of land use changes and space economy along the Asokwa By-pass and Interchange project, implemented between 2008 and 2011. While not establishing causality, the paper juxtaposes the space economy along the corridor prior to its commencement with existing land uses; to examine perceived and real changes recorded. Adopting a combination of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods including institutional consultations and survey of 290 household participants and 20 business operators, the paper observes rapid emergence of economic uses; conversion of obsolete buildings into shopping arcades; and reclamation of unused lands. Beyond providing improved access and mobility, urban transport investments in cities in sub-Saharan Africa could be leveraged for value capture and revenue mobilisation towards the management of the infrastructure provided. This calls for a re-examination of the role of urban transport investments in sustainable city planning and infrastructure management in sub-Saharan Africa.