President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized that the government’s Reset Agenda is aimed at re-evaluating the provision of housing, infrastructure, and economic opportunities, asserting that adequate housing should be regarded as a right rather than a privilege for a select few.
He made this statement during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Green City Housing Project at Dedesua in Kumasi.
The President characterized the initiative as a significant advancement in Ghana’s developing housing strategy, which seeks to provide affordable and dignified housing for its citizens.
While addressing dignitaries at the sod-cutting event, President Mahama pointed out that Ghana’s increasing housing shortfall, currently estimated to exceed 1.5 million units, necessitates immediate and effective action to tackle the challenges posed by rising urbanization, soaring construction costs, and restricted access to affordable financing.
He detailed various housing initiatives being undertaken by the government, including the finalization of the Saglemi Affordable Housing Project, the implementation of district-level social housing programs, and a low-cost housing initiative for public sector employees in collaboration with organized labor and financial institutions.
President Mahama also revealed plans for a three-billion-cedi revolving housing fund that will involve the government, organized labor, SSNIT, and financial institutions to facilitate long-term mortgage financing for workers.
He stressed that homes under this program would be priced in cedis instead of dollars to protect homeowners from fluctuations in exchange rates.
The President additionally underscored the government’s dedication to reforming the rental housing market and enhancing affordability while ensuring fairness and dignity for tenants throughout the nation.
Praising Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for providing the 200-acre land for the initiative, President Mahama stated that the Green City Housing Project is set to produce over 1,000 housing units within a framework of integrated and environmentally sustainable development.
