The debate over the renaming of Ghana’s premier gateway, Kotoka International Airport (KIA), has taken center stage in national discourse, and one of the country’s biggest voices is making his stance clear.
During an exclusive interview with The1957News on the sidelines of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues, Ghanaian Afro-dancehall icon Stonebwoy shared his thoughts on the government’s proposal to revert the airport’s name to Accra International Airport.
Stonebwoy, known for his thoughtful takes on national identity, didn’t just give a “yes” or “no.” Instead, he challenged the purpose behind the change.
“If it’s going to reflect upliftment and a positive narrative about this nation, then yes,” the musician stated.
He acknowledged that while the current name honors Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, historical perspectives on the 1966 coup leader are complex. Stonebwoy noted that the original naming likely focused on Kotoka’s “good parts,” but argued that if a change is to happen now, it must be rooted in a “compelling reason” that projects a better image of Ghana to the world.
Watch his interview below.
The conversation comes at a pivotal moment. On February 3, 2026, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga announced that the government plans to lay a bill before Parliament to officially change the name. The move is described as part of a “resetting agenda” aimed at:
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Honoring the Ga People: Acknowledging the original custodians of the land where the airport sits.
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Democratic Values: Moving away from a name associated with military overthrows.
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Global Branding: Aligning with international standards where airports are often named after their host cities (like London Heathrow or Tokyo Haneda).
Stonebwoy’s comments mirror a wider sentiment among Ghanaians. While some, like the daughter of Ghana’s first president, Samia Nkrumah, have long advocated for the removal of Kotoka’s name, others worry about the cost and logistical confusion of rebranding such a major landmark.
For Stonebwoy, the “Torcher,” the verdict is simple: Symbols matter, but the spirit behind them matters more. If the name “Accra International Airport” serves as a “handshake” that represents a united and prosperous Ghana, he’s all for it.
