Assessing the Adoption of Sustainable Transportation in Urban Centres in Ghana: The Case of Adum

Rapid urbanisation in Ghana has intensified transportation-related challenges such as traffic congestion, air pollution, excessive fuel consumption, and inefficient mobility systems. These challenges are particularly evident in Adum, the central business district of Kumasi, where concentrated commercial and administrative activities generate high daily travel demand. Despite the existence of national transport policies aimed at promoting sustainable mobility, the adoption of sustainable transportation measures such as efficient public transport, cycling, and pedestrian infrastructure remains limited in many urban centres. This study assesses the adoption of sustainable transportation in Adum, Kumasi, with a focus on existing transportation modes, public awareness, and barriers to implementation. A mixed-methods research approach was employed, combining commuter surveys, interviews with transport operators and urban planning officials, and field observations of mobility patterns within the study area. The findings indicate that although there is moderate awareness of sustainable transportation concepts, inadequate infrastructure, institutional constraints, and socio-cultural preferences for private motorised transport significantly hinder adoption. The study concludes that achieving sustainable urban mobility in Adum requires improved public transport efficiency, enhanced pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, and stronger policy enforcement supported by public awareness initiatives. The research contributes empirical evidence to support urban transport planning and sustainable development strategies in Ghana's rapidly growing urban centres.

Kingsley Asamoah