The government of Ghana has launched the Built Environment National Conference on Housing and Hydrology (BENCHH) 2024 to tackle ongoing flooding and housing challenges.
Taking place over three days at the Labadi Beach Hotel, the event was inaugurated on July 2, 2024, by the Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah.
During the opening ceremony, Minister Oppong Nkrumah introduced the Ghana Hydrological Fund, aimed at mitigating flood risks and improving water management nationwide. The government has allocated GH¢1.5 million as initial funding for this initiative.
“The government, through the Ministry of Works and Housing, has prioritized an allocation of 1.5 million Ghana Cedis as seed money for the fund,” he stated.
Addressing a gathering of government officials, industry experts, and development partners, Minister Oppong Nkrumah stressed the importance of sustainable funding to effectively address Ghana’s flooding challenges.
He called on all stakeholders, including development partners, to contribute to the fund, highlighting its critical role in accelerating essential projects such as drainage construction and dredging.
Pointing to Ghana’s severe flooding issues, especially during the rainy season, Minister Oppong-Nkrumah cited inadequate drainage infrastructure and worsening impacts of climate change as exacerbating factors.
He noted that only 2% of the required concrete lining for drainage channels in the Greater Accra Region has been completed, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive action.
The Minister also addressed Ghana’s housing deficit, currently at 1.8 million units. He acknowledged the obstacles faced by affordable housing programs, including funding constraints and project delays inherited from previous administrations.
To address this, he advocated for robust public-private partnerships and incentives to encourage large-scale affordable housing developments by private developers.
Throughout the BENCHH 2024 conference, participants will engage in discussions focused on regulatory reforms and the establishment of a Works Inspectorate Unit to ensure adherence to building and safety standards.