Ghana Institute of Architects calls for action to make adequate housing a human right

The Ghana Institute of Architects has urged the nation to take decisive action to guarantee access to safe, habitable, and affordable housing. On the occasion of World Architecture Day 2026, which falls on October 5th, the institute's President, Mr. Tony Asare, issued a statement emphasizing that every individual deserves these fundamental necessities alongside essential services and security of tenure.

To achieve this, the GIA outlined several key requirements, including coordinated policies, serviced land, skilled labor, appropriate building materials, infrastructure, and accessible financing.

The organization advocated for a comprehensive national housing strategy, which would necessitate a review and update of the existing National Housing Policy from 2015 to align it with the National Urban Policy and Implementation Plan spanning from 2026 to 2035. Moreover, the GIA emphasized the importance of establishing clear housing targets, delineating institutional responsibilities, securing sustainable funding, and ensuring regular public reporting to enhance accountability within the sector.

One of the institute's proposals includes the creation of a Ghana Housing Authority via the appropriate legislative process, equipped with a well-defined mandate and effective accountability mechanisms. The institute also suggested a legally binding inclusionary housing framework, which would mandate qualifying residential developments to incorporate a certain percentage of affordable housing units or an approved alternative contribution.

This proposal would require thorough consultation, viability assessments, clear eligibility and affordability criteria, appropriate incentives, and safeguards to maintain affordability over time.

Regarding informal settlements, the GIA urged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to incorporate the National Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy from 2026 to 2035 into their development plans and budgets. The focus should be on improving water, sanitation, drainage, access roads, fire safety, and overall housing conditions, with active involvement from the residents in the upgrading process.

The institute also called for the expansion of affordable rental housing options, starter homes, rent-to-own schemes, and employer-assisted housing for low-income households and young people.

Additionally, the GIA stressed the need for stronger enforcement of existing tenancy protections and the completion of rent-law reforms through the legislative process, balancing tenant protection with the legitimate interests of landlords. The organization also proposed links between housing delivery and Technical and Vocational Education and Training, encompassing artisan training and certification, technical supervision, testing of local materials, and accessible financing for small contractors and cooperatives.

The GIA reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the government, MMDAs, communities, developers, financiers, and allied professionals to promote affordable and climate-responsive housing.