The Minister for Works, Housing, and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, has assured Parliament that the government is intensifying efforts to tackle flooding, housing shortages, water supply challenges, and coastal erosion ahead of Ghana’s upcoming rainy season.
Speaking before the Government Assurances Committee on Thursday, March 19, the minister detailed ongoing and planned interventions aimed at strengthening infrastructure and improving living conditions nationwide.
Flood Preparedness Ahead of Rainy Season
On the perennial challenge of flooding, Mr. Adjei said the ministry is working closely with relevant agencies to implement a comprehensive flood mitigation strategy.
Preparations are underway to improve coordination and response before heavy rains begin. Ghanaians can expect detailed updates on the government’s flood preparedness plans in the coming weeks.
Immediate interventions include dredging in flood-prone areas, such as the Kwesimintsim enclave in the Western Region, in partnership with the Hydrological Services Department, once funding is released.
The assurance comes amid rising concerns over the impact of heavy rains on urban communities, where drainage challenges have worsened flooding risks.
Expanding Affordable Housing Across the Country
The minister also highlighted the government’s housing agenda to address Ghana’s housing deficit.
He noted that the Tema Development Corporation is rolling out new housing projects in the Volta Region, while the State Housing Company is moving forward with affordable housing plans in Dedesua, Ashanti Region.
Additionally, a District Affordable Housing scheme has been piloted in at least eight districts, aimed at decentralizing housing delivery and ensuring more communities benefit from government-supported initiatives.
Saglemi Housing Project Revival
On the long-delayed Saglemi Housing Project, Mr. Adjei said the government has secured a transaction agreement with a strategic investor to restart construction.
About $200 million has already been invested in the project, and ongoing negotiations are expected to lead to the completion and allocation of units. The recovery process, initiated under the previous administration, continues with the same transaction advisor to ensure the project delivers as intended.
Addressing Water Supply and Quality
Regarding water supply, the minister acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly high turbidity levels affecting water quality.
He noted that environmental and human activities continue to impact water sources, but collaboration among stakeholders is ongoing to resolve these issues.
In the Northern Region, feasibility studies for the Tamale Water Project are being conducted by the World Bank, with contractual processes set to follow, aiming to address long-standing water shortages.
Coastal Protection and Regulatory Reforms
Mr. Adjei also updated Parliament on coastal protection initiatives, reporting that several sea defence projects are underway to safeguard vulnerable communities along Ghana’s coastline.
He added that a draft Rent Bill will soon be reintroduced to strengthen the legal framework for rental housing, addressing gaps identified in previous proposals.
Committee’s Response
The Government Assurances Committee, chaired by Bimbila MP Dominic Nitiwul, expressed concerns over delays in implementing government commitments.
Members called on heads of MDAs under the ministry to adopt more formal and decisive engagement mechanisms to ensure timely fulfillment of promises, urging stronger accountability in delivering projects and services.