The Volta Region stands out as one of Ghana’s most naturally endowed areas. From the serene beaches of Keta to the breathtaking mountains of Afadjato, and the winding rivers that breathe life into fishing and farming communities, the Region holds immense potential as a tourism and economic hub. Yet, despite these natural blessings, the region suffers from a chronic lack of settlement planning, particularly outside a few urban centres like Ho and some district capitals.
As someone who has travelled extensively across every district in the Volta Region, it is increasingly worrying to see the unplanned, chaotic development springing up in many communities. Apart from a handful of areas where something akin to planning is visible, most towns and villages have become concrete jungles, where buildings spring up haphazardly; without proper streets, drainage systems, recreational parks, or public spaces.
The Case of Fuveme, Atiteti, Tunu, Woe, and Keta
Let us take a closer look at the communities along the Keta lagoon: Fuveme, Atiteti, Tunu, Woe, and even Keta itself. These areas are strategically located along the coast and the lagoon, offering the potential for world-class riverfront residential and tourist communities. Instead of realizing this potential, what one sees is indiscriminate construction; buildings sitting almost on top of one another, with little or no space for road access or emergency services. In some areas, there are no designated footpaths, let alone access for fire tenders, ambulances, or delivery vehicles. Should disaster strike, it would be near impossible for emergency responders to intervene in time.
Ironically, it does not take billions of cedis to put these settlements in order. What is missing is a deliberate plan backed by legislation. Communities along the Keta strip could be transformed into stunning, organized towns with water-view homes, eco-lodges, commercial areas, and green parks; if only a comprehensive spatial plan was enforced before any land transactions took place.
Missed Opportunities in the Mountains
Beyond the coast, the mountainous areas of the region; places like Amedzofe, Avatime, Likpe, and Tafi Atome are ideal for the development of planned settlements tailored to eco-tourism and holiday homes. In many countries, such scenic highland communities are developed with zoning laws that ensure housing, roads, and commercial centres are harmonized with the natural landscape. In contrast, our mountains are slowly being dotted with unregulated buildings that neither serve the needs of residents nor tourists. The absence of planning has not only led to visual pollution but also denied the region the economic benefits that come with structured tourism.
Learning from Togo: A Model for Land Sale Legislation
During my time in the Republic of Togo from 2000 to 2003, I observed a land sale system that Ghana can learn from. In Togo, before any piece of land is sold, it must be surveyed and approved within the framework of a broader settlement plan. Every plot is linked to a zoning category; residential, commercial, recreational, agricultural, or governmental. Demarcation for streets are laid out first and utility corridors are clearly marked. No landowner is permitted to sell a plot unless these conditions are met. The result is evident: clean towns with clear demarcation for roads though most community roads are not tarred and spaces for public amenities.
It is time Ghana, and the Volta Region in particular, embraced a similar approach. Land sales should be guided by enforceable planning schemes. Clans, Chiefs and family landowners must be trained and supported by district planning authorities to follow structured layouts. Layouts should precede sales; not the other way around.
The Way Forward: A Legislative Framework for Planned Settlements.
To reverse the trend of unplanned development, Parliament must enact a comprehensive Land Sale and Settlement Planning Act that:
1. Mandates layout planning before land sales: Landowners must secure an approved layout plan before any parcel of land is sold.
2. Empowers local assemblies and Town & Country Planning departments: These bodies must have the legal authority to halt illegal development and enforce community layout plans.
3. Encourages public-private partnerships: Private developers should be incentivized to create model communities, especially in scenic or tourist-potential areas.
4. Protects community spaces: Every planned settlement must include provision for roads, schools, clinics, parks, marketplaces, and places of worship.
5. Supports community sensitization: Residents and chiefs must understand the long-term benefits of planning; not just for beauty, but for safety, accessibility, and sustainable development.
Conclusion
The Volta Region can become a jewel not only of Ghana but of the entire West African sub-region. However, this dream cannot be realized in a state of disorganization. Planned settlements are not a luxury; they are a necessity for orderly growth, tourism, and economic development. We cannot afford to continue building chaos today and hoping for order tomorrow.
Let us act now. Let us plan now. The time to shape the future of the Volta Region is today.
SAVIOUR GOKAH,
KPOTA,
ANYAKO, VR
