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Ghana Integrity Initiative Hosts Forum to Address Land Corruption and Management in Tamale

Tamale: A critical forum was held in Tamale aiming to educate selected youth groups, traditional authorities, and persons with disabilities on land management and corruption issues within Ghana. The initiative, organized by the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) in collaboration with the Lands Commission, focused on empowering these groups to advocate for land rights and fight corruption. According to Ghana News Agency, the event was part of the "Land and Corruption in Africa" (LCA) phase two project, supported by Friends of Transparency International. Mr. Michael Okai, the Project Coordinator for the LCA phase two project, emphasized the importance of including young people in discussions about land rights and corruption. He noted that previous efforts often overlooked the youth, who are crucial for advocating reform and participating in land governance. Mr. Okai highlighted the challenges faced by young individuals, especially those in rural and peri-urban areas, who are frequently excluded from land-relate d decision-making processes and are often unaware of their rights. He stressed the necessity for young people to be sensitized and equipped to appreciate their rights and participate actively in governance. During the forum, Mr. Samuel Gyarteng, Northern Regional Lands Officer at the Lands Commission, discussed the new Land Act 2020 (Act 1036). This act aims to reform, integrate, and consolidate land laws to promote sustainable land administration and management. He advised land buyers to conduct thorough investigations to confirm the rightful landowners before making purchases, especially in disputed areas, to avoid potential conflicts. Participants were also encouraged to secure all necessary land documentation from the Lands Commission to ensure their safety and legal backing. Mr. Issahaku Abdul-Latif, Northern Regional Coordinator for Activista Ghana, praised the initiative and called for more such engagements at the community level to help residents understand and navigate issues surrounding land owner ship.