Ghana’s housing policy needs a reset, not just more houses – Ghana Institute of Architects to Government:

The Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA) has delivered a firm warning to policymakers regarding the country's persistent housing crisis. Writing on World Architecture Day 2026, the Institute stated that simply constructing more homes will not solve Ghana's housing issues if those residences are unaffordable for those most in need. Specifically, the Institute emphasized that the government must prioritize low-income households, young people, and vulnerable groups in its housing policies and initiatives.

The GIA asserts that secure, habitable, and affordable housing with access to basic services is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. To achieve this, the Institute highlighted the need for serviced land, skilled labor, local materials, supporting infrastructure, and financing options that are accessible to ordinary Ghanaians.

They emphasized that employment and income play crucial roles in housing affordability and called for targeted public assistance to ensure low-income and vulnerable households can access the market.

The Institute called for a thorough review of the existing National Housing Policy 2015, advocating for its alignment with the National Urban Policy and Implementation Plan 2026–2035. This review should include clear targets, defined responsibilities, sustainable funding, and regular public reporting on progress. Additionally, they proposed the establishment of a Ghana Housing Authority through proper legislative processes, ensuring accountability and transparency in housing initiatives.

To address affordability, the architects recommended an inclusionary housing framework that requires a certain percentage of affordable units in qualifying residential developments or an equivalent contribution. This framework should be developed through consultation, with clear criteria on affordability and eligibility, and safeguards to prevent the framework from hindering housing projects.

For informal settlements, the Institute emphasized the importance of involving residents in the improvement of their communities. They advocated for incorporating the National Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy 2026–2035 into the plans and budgets of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies. The focus should be on improving water, sanitation, drainage, roads, fire safety, and housing.

Where feasible, the Institute favored upgrading existing settlements rather than displacing residents. Relocation, if necessary, should adhere to the law, due process, and proper resettlement arrangements.

For young people and low-income households, the Institute proposed affordable rental schemes, starter homes, rent-to-own programs, and employer-assisted housing options. They also called for transparent eligibility rules, realistic financing, stronger tenancy protections, and the completion of reforms to Ghana's rental laws. The GIA supported incremental construction as a pathway to homeownership for those unable to build entire houses at once, emphasizing the need for stronger links between housing programs and technical education, artisan certification, technical supervision, and local building-material testing.

However, the Institute stressed that affordability should not compromise the structural integrity, fire safety, sanitation, or accessibility of housing. Incremental housing should be backed by secure land, approved designs, and technical guidance to ensure safe, phased construction. The Institute pledged its readiness to collaborate with government, Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies, developers, financiers, and other professionals.

Ultimately, the GIA stressed that acknowledging housing as a human right is meaningless without its practical implementation. They emphasized that the right must transition from policy to practice, and achieving this requires the collective effort of all stakeholders.