Kotoka International Airport set to be renamed
The recent proposal to rename Kotoka International Airport (KIA), a major gateway into Ghana, to Accra International Airport has sparked a flurry of reactions across the nation, with Ghanaians expressing a wide range of opinions on the matter.
On February 3, 2026, GhanaWeb TV’s Naomi Panyin Appiah-Danquah visited various parts of Accra to capture the voices of a cross-section of Ghanaians regarding this potential change, which has ignited a debate reflecting diverse sentiments from support to staunch opposition.
Many supporters of keeping the current name argue that it is important to honor General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, a key figure in the 1966 coup that overthrew the country’s first government, or that it reflects the country’s evolving identity.
One local businessman stated, “It’s time we recognise the contributions of those who have shaped modern Ghana. A new name could symbolise our progress, but maintaining the current name is fine with me since it’s the name we know for the airport, whether in Ghana or nationwide.”
While some believe the current name should remain, others feel it doesn’t adequately represent the nation’s current values and aspirations.
However, a significant portion of the population opposes the renaming.
Critics raise concerns about the historical significance of the current name, which pays tribute to one of Ghana’s founding fathers, as well as the potential costs associated with the renaming process, including the need to update signage, documents, and other materials.
A mother of two and a history teacher remarked, “Changing the name is like erasing a part of our history.”
These critics argue that the resources required for renaming could be better allocated to more pressing national needs, such as improvements to the transportation system, infrastructure development, or social programs.
The debate has also extended to the criteria for selecting a new name.
Some Ghanaians suggest that if a change is to occur, the airport should be renamed either Kwame Nkrumah International Airport, JJ Rawlings International Airport, or Black Stars International Airport.
One young man commented, “If they want to change it, Black Stars International Airport would be a solid choice so that there’s no further dispute over the name.”
Watch the video below:
#TrendingGH: Watch some Ghanaians react to Kotoka International Airport renaming:
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