The Deputy Minister for Defence, Mr Ernest Brogya Genfi, has charged a newly inaugurated committee to develop a comprehensive, equitable, and sustainable homeownership policy and scheme to address the housing needs of personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
Speaking at the inauguration of the 17-member committee on Thursday in Accra, Mr Brogya Genfi stated the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel by enhancing access to affordable housing.
He tasked the committee, chaired by the Principal General Staff Officer (PGSO), Brigadier General Ben Gah, with developing a strong framework to guide the establishment of a homeownership program for members of the Ghana Armed Forces.
According to the deputy minister, upon completion, the policy document will be submitted to the Ministry’s Management, the Minister for Defence, and the Cabinet for consideration and approval.
He expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to deliver on its mandate, noting that members were carefully selected based on their expertise, experience, and institutional knowledge.
Mr Brogya Genfi highlighted the pressing housing challenges confronting the Ghana Armed Forces, revealing that the military currently faces a housing deficit of approximately 14,000 units.
He stressed that the issue goes beyond statistics and directly impacts the well-being of service personnel and their families.
“Behind that figure are 14,000 families for whom the security of a home remains out of reach,” he said.
The Deputy Minister noted that adequate housing is essential to the morale, stability, and operational effectiveness of military personnel.
He therefore urged the committee to develop innovative and practical solutions that would ensure members of the Armed Forces can own decent and affordable homes.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
