The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has introduced sweeping reforms to public land lease processes, requiring applicants to pay at least 70% of the assessed market value upfront. This move aims to boost state revenue, increase transparency, and curb opaque allocation of public lands, a longstanding concern in Ghana.
The new premium framework, announced by Deputy Minister Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, is part of a broader package of reforms approved by Cabinet. The remaining 30% of the land’s value will be paid as ground rent over the lease’s duration, replacing previous arrangements seen to have undervalued state lands.
Key Reforms:
– Upfront Payment: 70% of land value paid upfront, with 30% as ground rent
– Revised Form 5: Single mandatory application form for public land transactions
– Ministerial Approval: Mandatory written approval for public land allocation
– Digitalisation: Procurement processes initiated for national land administration digitalisation
– Task Force: Public Land Protection Task Force established to safeguard state lands
– Transparency: Market values published online, and land applications reviewed and published
The reforms follow a temporary ban on public land transactions during the review process, which has now been lifted. The ministry assures that transactions will be conducted under the new procedures to ensure transparency, accountability, and value for money.
These changes aim to restore public confidence in state land management, improve efficiency, and support Ghana’s development. The Lands Commission will publish updated information, including market values and reviewed applications, on its website.
