The State Housing Company Limited (SHC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, has issued a final 21-day notice to individuals and entities encroaching on its lands and properties across the country.
The directive follows a recent nationwide land audit conducted by SHC, which reportedly uncovered widespread unauthorized occupation, encroachment, and development on lands belonging to the company in various regions.
Audit reveals widespread encroachment
Management of SHC stated that the unauthorized activities are undermining its mandate to provide quality and affordable housing to Ghanaians.
As a result, the company has directed all persons, developers, groups, and entities occupying, developing, selling, leasing, or laying claim to SHC lands without valid and verifiable documentation issued by the company to cease such activities immediately.
Legal backing under Land Act
SHC reminded the public that state lands are protected under the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), which outlines procedures for the management and recovery of state lands.
The company stressed that unauthorized occupation of state lands constitutes both a criminal and civil offence under Ghanaian law.
Encroachers have been given 21 days from the date of the notice to halt all development activities and report to any SHC office nationwide for verification and possible regularization of their interest in the land or property. Applications for formal regularization will be subject to the company’s planning and zoning requirements.
Warning of strict enforcement
SHC warned that failure to comply within the stipulated period will trigger decisive enforcement measures, including legal action, demolition of unauthorized structures, recovery of lands and properties, and collaboration with state security agencies.
The company also advised the public to conduct due diligence before entering into land or property transactions, urging prospective buyers to verify documentation directly with SHC. It cautioned that it will not be liable for losses arising from dealings with unauthorized persons.
The notice was issued by the Public Relations Department of SHC in Accra.
For further enquiries, the public is encouraged to contact SHC’s Head Office at Ring Road West, Accra, visit any SHC office nationwide, call 0302-221422, or email info@statehousing.gov.gh.
