The National Tenants Union of Ghana has submitted a petition and a comprehensive housing policy proposal to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources through the Rent Control Department, calling for urgent reforms to address longstanding challenges facing tenants and the country’s housing sector.
The Union said the proposal outlines practical measures aimed at improving access to affordable housing, strengthening tenants’ rights, and modernizing Ghana’s housing policy to reflect current economic realities.
According to the Union, many tenants continue to face rising rent costs, demands for several years’ advance rent, inadequate dispute resolution mechanisms, and a shortage of affordable accommodation across the country.
The policy document recommends stricter enforcement of rent regulations, improved oversight of landlords and property managers, expanded affordable housing programs, and reforms to the Rent Control Department to enable it to respond more effectively to complaints and disputes.
The Union also called for increased government investment in affordable housing projects, stronger public-private partnerships, and the introduction of policies that balance the interests of both landlords and tenants while promoting fairness within the housing market.
Officials of the National Tenants Union noted that housing remains one of the biggest financial burdens for many Ghanaian families, arguing that comprehensive reforms are necessary to reduce exploitation, improve living conditions, and make decent housing more accessible.
The petition urges the Ministry to engage stakeholders, including tenant groups, landlords, developers, financial institutions, and civil society organizations, in developing a sustainable national housing strategy.
The Union expressed optimism that the government would give serious consideration to the recommendations, describing the proposal as a roadmap for creating a more transparent, equitable, and efficient housing system.
If adopted, the proposed reforms are expected to strengthen tenant protections, improve confidence in Ghana’s rental market, and contribute to broader efforts to address the country’s housing deficit while supporting long-term urban development.
