Amidst urban expansion, where land and housing are increasingly scarce, experts suggest that ethical land administration and spatial planning could prevent corruption.
Mary Awelana Addah, Executive Director of the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), asserted that harnessing these policies effectively leads to sustainable urban development. These strategies, she believes, are vital for creating cities that are not only centers of progress but also exemplars of prosperity and equality.
According to a report by Graphic Online, Addah’s comments came during an orientation workshop in Accra for the Spatial Planning Committee (SPC) and Technical Subcommittees in selected assemblies of the Ashanti Region.
The workshop, a joint venture between GII and the Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority (LUSPA), aimed to enhance the expertise of SPC and TSC members. It focused on promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical land management standards.
Participants delved into the nuances of the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act 2016 (Act 924) and LI 2384, exploring the critical responsibilities SPCs and TSCs hold within spatial planning services.
Lilian Baeka, the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Director, highlighted that effective land use planning influences several societal facets, including public health, safety, and food security. However, she noted the tendency of assemblies to prioritize revenue from permitting over other planning aspects.
The Land Use and Spatial Planning Act 2016 (Act 925) and the corresponding regulations of 2019 (L.I. 2384) were introduced to refine planning processes and the management of human settlements at the district level.
Michael Okai, Project Coordinator for the Land and Corruption Africa II Project, outlined that the workshop aligns with their mission to foster quality living conditions, promote governance, and address corruption in land dealings. He also urged the public to report corrupt activities to the GII’s Advocacy and Legal Advice Centre for action.
