Ghana’s Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has assured the public that the country’s public lands are secure and protected.
Speaking at the State of Ghana’s Public Lands Forum on Wednesday, Mr. Jinapor addressed rumors about the sale and mismanagement of public lands, labeling them as false.
He firmly stated that any reports suggesting the sale of public lands or unauthorized land grabs are unsubstantiated, emphasizing that such allegations often resurface during election periods, aiming to undermine public confidence in the government.
“Rumors about the sale of public lands, including Ga lands, are entirely false,” Jinapor asserted. If anyone has solid evidence to the contrary, I challenge them to come forward. Since I became minister, no credible evidence has been presented to prove such claims.”
“Historically, these claims emerge during election cycles. In 2008, there were allegations of Ga lands being looted. Yet, from 2009 to 2017, no substantive response was made to these allegations. Now, as we approach the 2024 elections, similar accusations are being made.”
“I can confidently state that these allegations are motivated by political considerations rather than facts.” Mr. Jinapor said.
He also highlighted recent land acquisitions and new initiatives under the current administration, revealing that “The Akufo-Addo government has been proactive in acquiring land to meet Ghana’s developmental needs. Notable projects include the 13,230-acre land at Afienya for industrial and urban development, a 509-acre tract between Afienya and New Akradi for railway development, and a 237-acre site in Tamale for the University for Development Studies.”
In addition, the ministry is advancing a digitalization program to streamline land service delivery by rolling out a new digital program to modernize the Lands Commission’s records.
“The enterprise land information system is already facilitating online services such as consolidated searches and stamp duty assessments, making it easier for Ghanaians to access land services from home.” he noted
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Source: Angelina Riley Hayford/ATLFMNEWS
