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The ceremonial handover of Francis Asenso-Boakye to Mr. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the recently appointed Minister, took place in a solemn ceremony at the Ministry of Works and Housing.
Mr. Asenso-Boakye expressed his thanks to the Ministry’s committed employees and management for their continuous support during his term.
Stressing the significance of a smooth transition, he pleaded with them to provide the next Minister the same cooperation.
Mr. Asenso-Boakye reflected on the difficulties the Ministry encountered, especially the effect of the COVID-19 epidemic on the country’s economy, and he cited a few minor accomplishments made during his tenure.
One of these achievements was the creation of the National Rental Assistance Scheme (NRAS), which aims to improve housing accessibility by helping low-to middle-income earners with rent advance payments.
By January 31, 2024, 1,492 people had benefitted from the NRAS.
Additionally, during Mr. Asenso-Boakye’s leadership, the Ghana Hydrological Authority Act, 2022 (Act 1085) was passed, transforming the Hydrological Services Department into the independent Ghana Hydrological Authority.
The nation’s water management methods were greatly reinforced by this legislative action.
Under Asenso-Boakye’s direction, the Real Estate Agency Council (REAC) was established with the goals of controlling real estate transactions, fostering openness, and upholding standards in the real estate industry.
Mr. Asenso-Boakye spearheaded the examination and reform of the Rent Act of 1963 and the Rent Control Law of 1986 in an attempt to encourage private investment in the industry.
Currently, a draft bill is being considered by Parliament.
Furthermore, the Rent Control Department will begin digitizing next month in order to provide better public service.
The Ghana Housing Authority (GHA) was established thanks to the efforts of Mr. Asenso-Boakye. It has been approved by the cabinet and is currently awaiting approval from Parliament.
In order to guarantee a resilient built environment, the Ministry effectively implemented new construction requirements.
Among his noteworthy projects was the updated National Affordable homes Programme, which seeks to use private sector cooperation to finance homes for Ghanaians.
With ongoing infrastructure construction, the first affordable housing project under this scheme, Pokuase, is expected to build 8,000 dwelling units.
Significant progress was achieved in the Redevelopment Programme with housing units built for public sector employees at Ridge, Airport Residential Area, Ringway Estate, and Lartebiokorshie, where 112 apartment units are now being built.
Mr. Asenso-Boakye and the Ministry personnel were complimented by Incoming Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah for their outstanding accomplishments in spite of economic difficulties.
He promised to expand on their achievements in providing for the country.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
