The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has asked the Lands Commission to take decisive steps in restoring public trust and shedding the negative perception of corruption often associated with its operations.
During a familiarization tour of the Commission’s head office in Accra on Tuesday, the Minister urged the leadership and staff to realign their operations with the government’s broader agenda of transparency, efficiency and national transformation.
“I expect the Lands Commission to align itself with the government’s resetting agenda and contribute meaningfully to achieving the broader national vision. Together, we can make a difference in Ghana,” he stated.
According to him, there was an urgent need to digitalize the Commission’s operations to tackle issues related to corruption, enhance transparency and make service delivery more efficient.
Mr. Buah encouraged staff to embrace values such as timeliness, dedication, and hard work and added that transforming public perception would require a visible shift in both conduct and results.
He assured them of the government’s intention to review their remuneration packages to boost their morale and enhance performance.
“Motivated staff produce results, and we are committed to ensuring that your conditions of service reflect the expectations placed on you,” he added
The Minister disclosed that approximately $165 million would be needed to complete the mapping of the country and pledged to work with the Ministry of Finance to secure funding for the project.
“We will pursue this agenda together,” he stated. “But even as we do that, there are many things within your control that you can begin to address now.”
The Executive Secretary of the Lands Commission, Mr. Benjamin Arthur provided the Minister with an overview of the Commission’s structure, strategic objectives, land tenure systems, and current digitalization initiatives.
He reiterated the Minister’s concerns, noting that the absence of a national base map severely restricts their operational capabilities.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
