The Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA) has called for coordinated national action to ensure access to safe, habitable and affordable housing as the country joins the global community to mark World Architecture Day 2026.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued and signed by Mr Tony Asare, President of GIA, ahead of World Architecture Day on Monday, October 5, on the theme: “Housing is a Human Right. Build It.”
The Institute said every person deserved safe and affordable housing, essential services and security of tenure, adding that achieving that required coordinated policies, serviced land, skilled labour, suitable building materials, infrastructure and accessible finance.
It said Ghana’s housing system should provide diverse options, including homeownership, supported incremental construction, affordable rental housing and targeted social housing to meet the needs of different income groups.
The GIA called for a coordinated national housing agenda through a review and update of the National Housing Policy, 2015, to align it with the National Urban Policy and Implementation Plan 2026–2035.
It also called for measurable housing targets, clearly defined institutional responsibilities, sustainable funding and regular public reporting to improve accountability in the sector.
The Institute proposed the establishment of any Ghana Housing Authority through the appropriate legislative process, with a clearly defined mandate and effective accountability mechanisms.
The GIA called for a legally grounded inclusionary housing framework requiring qualifying residential developments to provide a prescribed proportion of affordable housing units or an approved equivalent contribution.
It said such requirements should be developed through consultation and viability assessments, with clear eligibility and affordability criteria, appropriate incentives and safeguards to preserve affordability over time.
On informal settlements, the Institute urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to integrate the National Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy 2026–2035 into their development plans and budgets.
It said priority should be given to water, sanitation, drainage, access roads, fire safety and improved housing conditions, with residents actively involved in the upgrading process.
The GIA called for expanded affordable rental housing, starter homes, carefully structured rent-to-own schemes and employer-assisted housing for low-income households and young people.
It urged stronger enforcement of existing tenancy protections and completion of rent-law reforms through the appropriate legislative process, while balancing tenant protection with legitimate interests of landlords.
The Institute said there should be links between housing delivery and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), including artisan training and certification, technical supervision, testing of local materials and suitable financing for small contractors and cooperatives.
The GIA said affordability should not compromise structural integrity, fire safety, sanitation, accessibility or compliance with applicable standards.
It reaffirmed its readiness to work with the Government, MMDAs, communities, developers, financiers and allied professionals to promote affordable and climate-responsive housing.
