Kumasi, Dec 5, GNA – Mr Asare Akuffo, President of the Association of Bankers, has underscored the need for thorough research by stakeholders to foster effective planning and execution of development projects, particularly in the cities in the wake of the growing urbanization across the country.

He observed that city development and urbanization in contemporary time encompasses many perspectives and that through research and collaboration the nation could develop a more comprehensive blue print to guide future policies.

He also encouraged institutions of higher learning to do more in the area of publications so that the various Ministries, Agencies and Departments would be provided with sufficient bases for their development initiatives and development programmes.

Mr Akuffo was speaking at the launch of a book entitled “Future of the Tree - towards Growth and Development of Kumasi”, at the Great Hall of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi on Sunday.

The book, co-authored by seventeen personalities, including Scientists, Development Planners and Technocrats, discusses the various development problems in the Metropolis and how to tackle them.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene and Chancellor of the KNUST, foreword the 317-page book and edited by Professor Kwasi Kwafo Adarkwa, immediate-past Vice-Chancellor of the KNUST.

It contains 17 chapters with topics including State of the Environment in Kumasi, Climate Change and Housing in Kumasi, Urban Landscape Depletion in Kumasi, Urbanization and Human Security in Kumasi, Urban Governance in Kumasi, An Overview of Construction Activities in Kumasi, Financing Development in Kumasi, Provision of Social Services in Kumasi and Rising Vehicle Ownership, Roadway Challenges and Traffic Congestion in Kumasi.

Mr Akuffo said it was high time Kumasi was given a face-lift in terms of infrastructural development to enable the city attract the needed investment.

Professor William Otoo Ellis, Vice-Chancellor of the KNUST, described the book as a document, which could inform good policies for the benefit of the people if the suggestions and contents were considered.