Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako writes: UK’s £39bn social housebuilding programme – Any lessons for Ghana?

The UK has unveiled a £39 billion initiative to construct 300,000 social and affordable homes across the nation over the next decade, with an initial allocation of nearly £10 billion earmarked for 70,000 homes in England alone. (BBC News) In contrast, Ghana's government borrowed $200 million in 2012 to build 5,000 affordable housing units, yet, 14 years on, only 1,500 units are expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

This stark contrast raises questions about the government's ability to deliver on affordable housing promises. A government under the 4th Republic has struggled to make headway in this sector, with no administration in Ghana's history achieving significant progress. The NPP/Akufo-Addo Administration is now faced with explaining why they couldn't finish the Saglemi Housing Project in just 8 years; similarly, the NDC/Mills-Mahama Administration must address why they failed to complete projects started by the Kufuor Administration before embarking on the Saglemi project.

Citizens of both countries are left questioning which nation truly deserves the moniker of a "godforsaken country." Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako, Accra, August 25, 2026.