The proposed relocation of a new airport project from Sunyani to Nsoatre has ignited debate over equitable development in the Bono Region, with concerns emerging about the marginalisation of the regional capital.
An independent parliamentary candidate for Sunyani East in the 2024 elections, Ransford Antwi, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to reconsider the decision and prioritise Sunyani in national development planning.
In a statement issued following the President’s recent visit to the region, Mr. Antwi argued that Sunyani has sufficient land to host major infrastructure projects, including the proposed airport, a stadium, and a modern market under the government’s 24-hour economy initiative. He insisted that the President’s earlier commitment clearly identified Sunyani as the intended location for the airport.
Mr. Antwi also criticised what he described as a lack of consultation with traditional authorities in Sunyani, alleging that decisions were made hastily in favour of Nsoatre due to the availability of large tracts of land.
He further expressed concern that Sunyani has been sidelined in past development decisions, citing instances where key projects were relocated to other towns. According to him, such trends risk undermining the growth potential of the regional capital.
The former candidate maintained that local authorities are prepared to support the project, revealing that over 1,200 acres of land are available in Sunyani for the airport, along with additional land for other developments.
While stressing that his position is not politically motivated, Mr. Antwi called for deliberate efforts to ensure balanced regional development, urging government to give Sunyani what he described as its “fair share” of national projects.
The issue has added to ongoing discussions about infrastructure distribution in the Bono Region, with stakeholders closely watching government’s next move on the proposed airport project.
