Master Plan Developed for Pokuase Housing Project – Asenso-Boakye

The Minister for Works and Housing, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has revealed that the government has developed a meticulously crafted master plan for the Pokuase Housing Project.

With the aim of avoiding the setbacks faced by previous housing initiatives, the government is taking a well-thought-out approach to ensure the success of this project.

During the launch of the project at Pokuase on Tuesday, August 1, Mr Asenso-Boakye emphasized that thorough feasibility and viability assessments have been carried out to ensure a smooth and successful execution.

“Unlike the previous efforts, this revised programme stands out, as distinct and exceptional in multiple ways. This distinction arises primarily from the valuable insights gained from our past experiences, inspiring our commitment to approach things the right way, this time.”

“When I assumed office in 2021, we took the decision to undertake a comprehensive review of the public housing profile. This review led to the development of a revised framework, which consist of two (2) parts: the supply-side and the demand-side,” he said.

On the supply-side, the government will provide free unencumbered land and associated infrastructure, inviting the private sector to construct the housing units for subsequent sale at an agreed-upon price.

Mr Asenso-Boakye also reaffirmed President Akufo-Addo’s commitment to completing all housing projects initiated by previous governments. Efforts are being made to revive the Saglemi Housing Project and others that encountered challenges.

“In 2006, under the leadership of President John Agyekum Kufuor, government launched an Affordable Housing Programme which aimed to construct 5000 housing units in six (6) different towns over a five-year period. Unfortunately, despite the noble intentions, the project did not yield the anticipated outcomes, due to challenges in project conception and funding.” he explained.

Efforts are underway to complete some of the projects, including those in Asokore Mampong (Ashanti region), Borteyman, and Kpone (Greater Accra region).

Additionally, steps are being taken to revive the Saglemi Affordable Housing Project, initiated during the leadership of Presidents John Evans Atta Mills and John Mahama.

The minister stressed that the new approach considered the entire ecosystem involved in delivering housing, including land availability, infrastructure, sustainable funding, building materials, and an inclusive demand-side arrangement, to ensure the success of the Pokuase Housing Project and future endeavours.

Story by Nana Kwaku Boffah (Parliamentary Correspondent)