Mahama urges tougher enforcement of building regulations over recent collapses

President John Mahama has called for stricter enforcement of building regulations at the district assembly level following recent building collapses. Speaking at the National Conference on Housing Finance, Mahama emphasized the need to identify those responsible for ensuring building safety and take action against them. He highlighted that developers are obligated to obtain building permits from local assemblies to ensure structural safety.

However, Mahama expressed concern over developers disregarding stop work orders and continuing construction despite warnings. The President directed the Ministry of Local Government to address this issue seriously and hold accountable those whose negligence leads to building collapses. Mahama also addressed housing affordability, stressing that a successful housing policy requires homes to be affordable for the average Ghanaian.

He noted that high borrowing costs, substantial deposits, and short repayment periods continue to hinder home ownership for many households. Mahama called for financing arrangements that align with Ghanaian incomes, such as longer-term financing in local currency, manageable repayments, and clear terms. He praised the National Home Ownership Fund's role in expanding housing finance access through partnerships with major banks, resulting in over 1,000 homes for Ghanaians and a current National Mortgage Scheme rate of 8.4 percent.