By Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
President John Dramani Mahama has renewed calls for strict enforcement of Ghana’s rent advance regulations, insisting that the legal cap of six months must be respected as part of broader efforts to bring fairness and dignity to the rental housing market.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the Green City Housing Project in Kumasi, the President acknowledged long-standing challenges in enforcing the Rent Control Act, noting that although the law is clear, compliance has been weak.
He explained that the law limits landlords to a maximum of six months’ rent advance, with a Rent Court established to prosecute violations. However, enforcement has been difficult because both tenants and landlords often avoid reporting breaches.
“The one who wants a place to stay is focused on shelter, and the house owner is also trying to secure income. So neither side reports violations, and that has been the main challenge,” he said.
President Mahama stressed that government’s goal is to restore “fairness, protection and dignity” within the rental sector, while also expanding alternatives to reduce pressure on renters.
As part of the broader housing agenda, he highlighted the National Home Ownership Fund, which will provide long-term financing—particularly for retirees—who he said deserve security after years of service to the country.
He added that government is pursuing a comprehensive housing reform programme that includes improved supply, expanded affordability, and better enforcement of housing standards, alongside new financing models designed to reflect Ghanaian income realities.
The President made the remarks while launching the Green City Housing Project on 200 acres of land in the Ashanti Region. The development is expected to deliver over 1,000 housing units within an integrated and planned community.
He said the initiative forms part of government’s “reset agenda” for housing, aimed at addressing Ghana’s estimated 1.5 million housing deficit and ensuring equitable access to decent housing across urban and regional centres.
The project is being implemented by the State Housing Company Limited in partnership with government and private stakeholders.
