The newly appointed Minister of Works, Housing, and Water Resources is facing growing calls to urgently revive and complete the abandoned Saglemi Housing Project

 In an official statement issued by Nana Otu Darko, a convener for Team Saglemi Not For Sale advocated for the project’s completion.

The statement urged the minister to take immediate steps to reclaim the initiative and ensure that it fulfils its original purpose of providing affordable housing to Ghanaians.

The Saglemi Housing Project, launched in 2012 under former President John Dramani Mahama, was designed to construct 5,000 housing units in Ningo Prampram to help address Ghana’s significant housing deficit.

Despite a $200 million investment in its first phase—delivering 180 blocks and over 1,500 flats—the project has remained stalled, with concerns over mismanagement, financial irregularities, and government inaction leaving thousands of prospective homeowners in limbo.

The statement highlighted the previous administration’s decision to transfer the completion of the project to a private company, a move that has sparked widespread concern among stakeholders.

Critics argue that privatizing the project contradicts its original affordability goal and could result in housing units being priced beyond the reach of average Ghanaian citizens.

Reports also indicate that the private entity tasked with completing the project has faced delays, cost overruns, and challenges in delivering results.

“The Saglemi Housing Project was envisioned to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing to Ghanaians across various income levels,” the statement read.

“By reclaiming the project, the minister has the opportunity to realign it with its original purpose and prevent it from becoming a failed investment.”

The statement further referenced key constitutional mandates, including Article 35 of the 1992 Constitution, which enjoins the state to ensure equitable distribution of resources, including housing.

It also cited multiple provisions under Ghana’s Public Financial Management Act, Criminal Offences Act, Public Procurement Act, and Anti-Corruption Act, emphasizing that those responsible for delays, mismanagement, and financial losses must be held accountable.

“The abandonment of this project not only deprives Ghanaians of much-needed housing but also represents a clear case of willful financial loss to the state,” the statement asserted.

“All individuals whose actions or inactions contributed to this situation must be investigated and prosecuted accordingly.”

As the new minister takes office, the Team urged him to prioritize the completion of Saglemi under direct government control, rather than private sector involvement.