Cape Coast: Mr Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has inaugurated a 25-member board for the Commission in the Central Region to curb encroachments on public lands, including wetlands and heritage sites. He directed the board to enforce lawful ownership of lands to reduce disputes and deter land guard activities in areas like Kasoa and Winneba.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister expressed concern that encroachment, rapid urbanisation, and unplanned development were threatening the Central Region's potential as a hub for culture, tourism, and agriculture. He highlighted the mounting pressure on historic towns such as Cape Coast and Elmina from unplanned settlements, risking damage to cultural and environmental heritage. The government supports resolving these issues, but the Commission's proactive leadership is essential to enforce lawful ownership and deter illegal land activities.
The 25-member board, chaired by Mr Theophilus Adu Mensah, a former District Chief Executive for Gomoa West, is mandated to manage public lands and advise government bodies on policy frameworks to ensure coordinated land development. His Lordship John-Mark Nuku Alifo, a Cape Coast High Court Judge, swore the members into office during a ceremony in Cape Coast.
Mr Buah urged the new board to enforce the Lands Act 2020 to halt illegal activities degrading lands and the environment. He stressed the importance of streamlining land registration processes to ensure timely completion. He noted that investors in hospitality, infrastructure, and agro-processing are ready to exploit opportunities in the region, particularly in tourism and education, but face challenges due to bureaucratic delays and unreliable records.
The Minister emphasized the need for the Commission to decentralize land services to district offices and resolve longstanding land disputes through mediation. He highlighted the importance of protecting coastal zones and wetlands from illegal development and addressing corruption at the Lands Commission.
Mr Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, the Central Regional Minister, criticized the Commission's past performance and called for renewed commitment to proper land governance. He warned against corrupt practices and urged dedication to service.
Mr Mensah, the Board Chair, commended his predecessors for laying the groundwork and pledged to lead with integrity and dedication. He emphasized transparency and collaboration to achieve the Commission's goals.
Justice Alifu noted that members absent from the swearing-in could not act until they were sworn in, as it is a legal requirement.