Minister for Works and Housing Kojo Oppong Nkrumah announced during the Busia Institute Lecture at Takoradi Technical University that the Ghanaian government is poised to roll out its ambitious district-level housing projects to address the nation’s significant housing shortfall.
The initiative, unveiled on July 31, 2024, seeks to close Ghana’s 1.8 million housing gap by decentralizing housing development and tailoring solutions to each region’s specific needs.
Minister Oppong Nkrumah outlined the district housing programme’s strategic framework, emphasizing its role in fostering local growth and accessibility.
“Our vision is to decentralize housing development, ensuring that every district has the infrastructure to meet its housing needs and lay the groundwork for sustained regional development,” Minister Oppong Nkrumah stated.
The programme will encompass diverse housing units, from affordable apartments to larger family homes, catering to various income levels and local demands.
The minister highlighted the initiative’s potential to generate employment opportunities, particularly for youth.
Key stakeholders, including Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah and Takoradi Technical University Vice-Chancellor Rev Prof John Frank Eshun, strongly supported the programme.
They emphasized its alignment with regional development objectives and its potential to boost local economies through enhanced infrastructure and expanded housing options.
Chairman Tetrete Okuamoah Sekyim II of the Wassa Amenfi Traditional Area underscored the importance of community involvement in the housing projects, advocating for collaborative efforts between government and local authorities to ensure project success.
Executive Director Anane Agyei of the Busia Institute praised the government’s initiative and pledged institutional support through research and advocacy to optimize project outcomes.
The district housing programme represents a significant stride towards tackling Ghana’s housing challenges, fostering inclusive development, and improving living standards nationwide.
