Minister of Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, has announced Cabinet’s approval of a plan to finalize the Saglemi Housing Project initiated by the previous administration.
Commencing in 2016, the Saglemi Housing Project had been abandoned due to legal disputes, leading to vandalism and theft of materials such as burglar-proofing and plumbing fixtures.
During a recent visit to Saglemi, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah disclosed that a technical committee had been formed to expedite the project’s completion following Cabinet’s green light.
This committee was tasked with issuing an international expression of interest within five weeks to attract private investment for the project’s completion and utilization.
With an estimated cost exceeding $100 million, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah acknowledged the fiscal constraints and emphasized the need for private sector collaboration to fund the project.
He expressed confidence that within the specified timeframe, the technical committee would finalize the expression of interest, facilitating the selection of private partners to operate or dispose of the housing units.
Addressing security concerns at the site, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah acknowledged existing security measures but highlighted the need for enhancements to prevent further equipment deterioration due to theft. Security reinforcements were implemented to safeguard the site.
Additionally, the minister toured Kpone and Michel Camp, where TDC Development Company Limited had constructed over 2,000 affordable housing units.
He praised TDC’s contribution to tackling the housing deficit and pledged support for master developers like TDC to undertake larger projects. This strategy aimed to accelerate efforts in bridging the housing gap.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah emphasized the ministry’s commitment to collaborating with TDC to reduce construction costs and invited them to participate in the National Affordable Housing Project at Pokuase. Regarding cost and affordability, he assured the implementation of market mechanisms to ensure that affordable housing reached the intended beneficiaries.