Kumasi

Kumasi is located in the Rain Forest Region of Ghana and is popularly known as "The Garden City" for its many beautiful species of flowers and plants. The capital of the Asanti Region, it is the second-largest city in Ghana, West Africa. In the south-central part of the country, Kumasi is approximately 300 miles north of the Equator, 100 miles north of the Atlantic's Gulf of Guinea, and 100 miles west of the Prime Meridian. The city is located on the Busumtwe River, which empties into the Atlantic. While the terrain surrounding Kumasi is relatively flat, the countryside is lush with tropical vegetation. With over 2.5 million citizens, the city spans a radius of 18 to 20 miles. Kumasi's population is comprised of about 80 percent Christians and 20 percent Muslims. The city was declared a Sister City to Charlotte in 1996, after delegates of each city made visits to the other beginning in 1993. Trade, commerce, farming, and mining are leading industries in Kumasi. In addition, its region boasts a rich cultural heritage particularly evident in smaller surrounding towns. Other riches abound, too, with wealth derived from substantial gold deposits and agricultural products. Cocoa and high-quality hardwood are major exports. Kumasi is also home to numerous educational entities, including the University of Science and Technology, one of Ghana's foremost institutions of higher learning. English is the official language of Kumasi, and its native language is Asanti (TWI.) A relatively young city, Kumasi was founded in the early 19th century by King Osei Tutu. The king named the city after the KUM tree, which he planted as a symbol of victory for the Asanti Empire over the British. In fact, the Asanti Region has been independent since about 1875, even though Ghana itself declared independence in 1957. A descendant of King Osei Tutu, Nana Opoku-Ware, is king of the Asanti Region today, receiving allegiance from the people within the democracy of Ghana. He is reputed to be the richest king on Africa's West Coast. The king resides in Kumasi, and his home, the Manhyia Palace, is one of the city's mostspectacular sights. Legend has it that a golden stool in the palace descended from heaven. Near the palace grounds is a copper sword, which is said to have been driven into the ground by an ancient priest, and which, it is told, no one has been able to remove by any means. Along with such history and legend, Kumasi is a fast-growing, contemporary city. Too, it is filled with avid sports enthusiasts, who are especially proud of their soccer team. Called Kumasi Asanti Kotoko, the team has won numerous national and continental awards.

Kumasi City