The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has embarked on a familiarization tour of the Lands Commission, marking his maiden visit since assuming office. The visit formed part of his ongoing engagements with key institutions under his Ministry as he seeks to drive urgent reforms and reset the tone for transparency, efficiency, and integrity in land administration.
Addressing management and staff, the Minister emphasized that his presence was not just symbolic but a call to action.
“I bring you greetings from His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama. As ministers, we are goalkeepers for the President in our various sectors. We are here to work, and we must work together,” he said.
Hon. Buah praised staff who have been working with diligence and integrity despite existing challenges. However, he was frank in acknowledging the negative public perception of the Lands Commission.
“I don’t believe the Lands Commission is the most corrupt institution. But that is the perception of many Ghanaians, and that perception must change,” he stated.
The Minister recounted his personal experience with delays in processing land documentation — an ordeal that was only resolved quickly after he was nominated as Minister. “That experience tells me someone else without political connections is still waiting,” he lamented.
Determined to change the status quo, Hon. Buah disclosed that a full digitalization of land services was a top priority. He noted that Ghana needs approximately $165 million to complete a nationwide digital mapping exercise, a reform he described as a game-changer.
“This will cut down bureaucracy, reduce corruption, and make the Lands Commission one of the most efficient public service institutions. We must find the money and make this happen,” he charged.
He also called for the full implementation of provisions in the Land Act, especially those related to regularizing customary lands. “If a chief hasn’t regularized his land as the law requires, why are we still providing services?” he asked.
The Minister emphasized that change must begin from within — by creating a workplace culture rooted in professionalism, integrity, and mutual respect.
“We spend more time at work than at home. This should be a safe, productive, and harassment-free environment, a family that delivers results,” he told staff.
In closing, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to “resetting Ghana,” beginning with the Lands Commission. “We are not here to witch-hunt. We are here to transform. And we will do it together,” he affirmed.
