Ghana’s land administration is poised for a major shake-up following a firm directive from the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
In a bold move to tackle years of public frustration over access and inefficiency, the Minister has given the Lands Commission just two months to decentralize its operations across the country.
“Land is a critical asset for our people, and it is unacceptable that citizens have to travel long distances to regional capitals to access basic land services,” the Minister stated on May 20.
He emphasized that this transformation is not just about improving logistics but about rebuilding confidence in the system itself.
“This decentralization will not only enhance efficiency but also restore public trust in the Commission’s ability to manage land resources fairly and effectively,” he noted.
To lead the charge, the Minister has tasked the newly appointed Acting Executive Secretary, Professor Anthony Owusu-Ansah, with turning this mandate into reality. He is expected to ensure that district-level offices are swiftly upgraded to provide core services such as land registration, titling, and dispute resolution.
Prof. Owusu-Ansah welcomed the challenge and promised to make the Minister’s vision a reality.
“We will work to ensure that Ghanaians, no matter where they are, can access prompt and professional land services. This decentralization is the first step in rebuilding the Commission’s reputation as a responsive and people-centered institution.”
The announcement marks a potential turning point for land administration in Ghana—one that places service delivery and citizen access at its core. If successful, it could signal a broader shift toward transparency, equity, and efficiency in the management of one of the country’s most vital resources.
