State Housing Company’s pricing policy faces scrutiny as Minority raises concerns
In a parliamentary session marked by growing concerns over the soaring prices of housing units constructed by the State Housing Company (SHC), minority members of the Works and Housing Committee have voiced their disapproval, asserting that the current pricing structure renders these units out of reach for the average Ghanaian and even the middle class.
During inspections of various developments in Adenta and Amrahia, suburbs of Accra, the committee discovered price tags ranging from GH₵800,000 to GH₵1.1 million. The astronomical figures have sparked outrage among lawmakers, with Vincent Oppong Asamoah, the Minority Spokesperson on Works and Housing, expressing his disbelief that even he, as a privileged Member of Parliament, would be unable to afford such housing. He went on to question how a low-level civil servant could possibly amass the necessary funds to purchase these units, highlighting the stark reality of their inaccessibility.
Chairman of the Committee, Isaac Kwame Asiamah, while acknowledging the commendable efforts of the current management in revitalizing the State Housing Company from its previous state of disrepair, concurred with his colleagues regarding the exorbitant prices. He noted that the middle class, widely regarded as the backbone of the economy, would face considerable difficulties in raising the required capital for homeownership.
In response to the mounting criticisms, Kwabena Ampofo Appiah, the Managing Director of the State Housing Company, shed light on the institution’s long-standing objective of pursuing profitability while striving to provide homes of the highest quality at affordable prices. However, Appiah also acknowledged the challenges faced by the SHC, particularly in land acquisition in the Greater Accra Region, which have contributed to the current pricing structure.
Amidst the debate, the government has extended an offer to support the SHC by providing essential infrastructure such as roads, water, and electricity. This assistance is expected to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with housing construction, potentially leading to a reduction in unit prices. Appiah expressed optimism that this collaborative effort would create a sustainable framework, enabling the SHC to deliver homes tailored to lower-income individuals and families, thus addressing the pressing issue of affordability.
The escalating dialogue surrounding the steep prices of SHC housing units underscores the urgent need for accessible housing options in Ghana. With escalating property costs, particularly in urban centers, it has become imperative for governmental entities and stakeholders to forge alliances and devise strategies aimed at ensuring affordable housing options for all strata of society.
The current scrutiny faced by the SHC presents an opportunity for policymakers and the housing industry to reevaluate existing pricing models and devise innovative solutions. Collaborative efforts should be undertaken to explore alternative financing mechanisms, streamline construction processes, and engage in sustainable urban planning to curb the rising costs of housing.
Furthermore, enhancing the availability of housing finance options, promoting public-private partnerships, and encouraging developers to incorporate affordable housing components into their projects are vital steps towards bridging the affordability gap. By adopting a multi-faceted approach, Ghana can strive towards equitable access to housing, fostering social stability and economic growth.
As Parliament raises concerns over the unaffordability of housing units constructed by the State Housing Company, urgent action is needed to address the widening gap between rising prices and the financial capabilities of the average Ghanaian and middle-class citizens. By fostering collaboration between governmental agencies, private sector stakeholders, and housing experts, Ghana can forge a path toward a more inclusive and accessible housing market, ensuring that housing becomes a reality for all its citizens.
