In recent years, Ghana has been grappling with a severe housing deficit that has left millions without adequate shelter. This crisis is not just a matter of numbers but a profound human rights issue that affects the most vulnerable and marginalized groups in society. Despite numerous promises and policies, the failure of leadership to effectively address housing issues has exacerbated the situation, leading to dire consequences for the poor.
A growing concern
Ghana’s housing deficit is estimated to be over two million units, with an annual increase of approximately 70,000 units needed to meet demand. This staggering shortfall has resulted in overcrowded living conditions, with many families forced to share single rooms in dilapidated structures. The urban areas, particularly Accra and Kumasi, are the most affected, as rural-urban migration continues to swell the population in these cities.
Challenges and High Cost of Rent
The challenges contributing to the housing deficit are multifaceted. Land acquisition is fraught with legal and bureaucratic hurdles, making it difficult for developers to access land for construction. Additionally, the high cost of building materials, largely due to import dependency, has driven up construction costs, making housing unaffordable for the average Ghanaian.
Rent prices have skyrocketed, with landlords demanding exorbitant advance payments, often up to two years’ rent upfront. This practice places an unbearable financial burden on low-income families, who struggle to make ends meet. The high cost of rent not only exacerbates poverty but also limits access to other essential services such as education and healthcare.
Impact on the poor and marginalized
The housing crisis disproportionately affects the poor and marginalized groups, including women, children, and persons with disabilities. These groups often find themselves in informal settlements or slums, where living conditions are deplorable, lacking basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity. The lack of secure housing also exposes them to various forms of exploitation and abuse.
For many, the dream of owning a home remains elusive, as mortgage facilities are inaccessible due to high interest rates and stringent eligibility criteria. The absence of affordable housing options leaves the poor trapped in a cycle of poverty, with little hope for upward mobility.
Leadership failure
The failure of leadership to address the housing crisis in Ghana is a significant concern. Despite numerous housing policies and initiatives, implementation has been weak, and corruption has often derailed efforts to provide affordable housing. Political will appears to be lacking, as successive governments have failed to prioritize housing as a critical component of national development.
Moreover, there is a disconnect between policy formulation and the realities on the ground. Many housing projects initiated by the government have stalled or been abandoned, leaving citizens disillusioned and frustrated.
Call to action
Addressing Ghana’s housing deficit requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and civil society. There is an urgent need for comprehensive reforms in land acquisition processes, investment in local production of building materials, and the development of innovative financing models to make housing affordable.
The government must demonstrate genuine commitment by allocating adequate resources and ensuring transparency and accountability in housing projects. Public-private partnerships should be encouraged to leverage resources and expertise in tackling the housing crisis.
In conclusion, the right to adequate housing is a fundamental human right that must be upheld. As Ghana strives towards achieving its development goals, addressing the housing deficit should be a top priority. It is time for leadership to rise to the occasion and ensure that every Ghanaian has a place to call home. The future of the nation depends on it.
(Script by Raphael Godlove Ahenu, International Human Rights Activist and Founder and CEO of Global Media Foundation)
