Techiman, situated in the Bono East Region of Ghana, is a vibrant city that holds the distinction of being the capital of Techiman Municipal and a prominent hub in South Ghana. This bustling urban centre plays a pivotal role in the region’s economic and cultural landscape. It stands alongside Sunyani as one of the key cities within the Bono East region.
One of Techiman’s most noteworthy features is its status as the home to West Africa’s largest traditional market. This market is a dynamic epicentre of commerce, drawing traders and buyers from far and wide. Techiman’s strategic location at the confluence of historic trade routes and its proximity to the Tano River has cemented its position as a vital trade and transportation hub.
As of 2013, Techiman was inhabited by a population of 104,212 people, and this number is likely to have grown since then. The city’s significance extends beyond its economic importance; it also serves as the administrative centre of the Techiman Municipal District. With its rich history, vibrant market culture, and pivotal regional role, Techiman continues to thrive as a dynamic urban centre in Ghana’s heartland.
History
According to oral tradition among the Akans, who make up the largest ethnic group in Ghana, their ancestral roots trace back to the ancient Bono State, with a significant historical location being Bono Manso, situated in the Techiman Municipality. The Fantes, a subgroup of the Akans, claim to have migrated from Techiman to establish the coastal Mankessim Kingdom in 1252, encompassing present-day Central and Western regions. Over time, various Akan groups formed their own states and city-states, including the Adanse state, Akyem, Akwamu, and others.
The history took a significant turn when the Ashanti Empire conquered Bono Manso in 1723, leading to the founding of the Bono-Techiman state in 1740 under Ashanti sovereignty. Nevertheless, the Akans, as per oral tradition, originally settled in Bono and were part of the Bono State until its subjugation by the Ashantis.
Techiman holds a central role as the heart of the Bonokyempem clan, consisting of Traditional Bono Ahafo Chiefs who played a crucial role in advocating for the formation of the Brong Ahafo Region, separate from the Ashanti Region, on April 4, 1959. Nana Kwaakye Ameyaw III, the former paramount chief of the Bono Traditional Area, spearheaded the establishment of the Bonokyempem clan, contributing significantly to this historical development.
Vegetation and Agriculture
Techiman, situated in the heart of Ghana, holds the esteemed title of one of the nation’s most bustling cities and a paramount commercial centre. Its crowning jewel is West Africa’s largest traditional market, drawing traders from neighbouring countries like Togo, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Mali. The strategic location of the Techiman Municipality, nestled between Ghana’s savanna and forest zones, bestows upon it the status of a pivotal trading hub.
Techiman’s reputation as the “Food Basket of Ghana” is well-earned, as its market operates tirelessly from Tuesday through Friday every week of the year, magnetizing merchants from across West Africa. This vibrant commercial scene has led to a cosmopolitan population, with individuals hailing from diverse racial, economic, and social-political backgrounds converging in this dynamic city. Techiman’s unique blend of culture, trade, and diversity makes it an undeniable cornerstone of Ghana’s economic and social landscape.
Culture
Techiman, a vibrant town in Ghana, is embarking on a significant project – the construction of a modern culture centre. This centre has a noble purpose: the preservation and celebration of the rich traditions of the Bono nation. Among these traditions is the annual Apoo festival, akin to Mardi Gras, typically celebrated in April or May. The festival had been suspended for years due to the passing of the Bonoman king before 2009, but now it thrives once more. The highlight of Apoo is the majestic durbar of the king (Omanhene) as it parades through Techiman.
Furthermore, in August, Techiman and its neighbouring town Wenchi host an annual yam ceremony that marks the culmination of yam production in the Brong-Ahafo Region. The Ghanaian government’s support, in the form of financial assistance, serves as a gift to aid in the development of Techiman’s land and the safeguarding of their cherished culture. This initiative not only enhances the local economy but also ensures that the heritage of the Bono nation continues to thrive and be celebrated for generations to come.
Transport
Techiman, a bustling town in Ghana, boasts a well-developed transportation network. It is primarily connected to Sunyani and its domestic airport, the Sunyani Airport, via a road network. While it lacks a railway station currently, there are proposals to extend the railway line to Techiman. The town also benefits from the navigable Tano River.
In terms of public transportation, Techiman offers convenient connections to major cities like Accra, Kumasi, Mim, Ahafo, Sunyani, Takoradi, Tema, Ho, Wa, Bolgatanga, Elubo, and Aflao. This accessibility is crucial for both residents and visitors.
A traffic study conducted in March 2007 provided insights into the town’s transportation dynamics. Taxis accounted for 34% of the traffic, while pedestrians made up 31%. Buses and vans contributed 10%, bicycles 7%, motorbikes 6%, cars 5%, and “other” modes of transportation constituted 7%. Of note, nearly half of the bicyclists used their bikes for work, demonstrating the role of cycling in daily life, with others utilizing bicycles for school, recreation, and touring purposes. This diverse transportation landscape underscores the town’s connectivity and its significance as a transportation hub in Ghana.