The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced bold plans to transform the Lands Commission into one of the most efficient public institutions in the country, pushing for a $165 million investment to fully digitize Ghana’s land records and administration processes.
During a familiarization tour of the Lands Commission’s headquarters in Accra, the minister did not shy away from addressing the elephant in the room—public perception that the Commission is among the most corrupt institutions in the country.
“Ghanaians think the Lands Commission is one of the most corrupt institutions in Ghana,” Armah Kofi Buah stated candidly.
“But we are going to reset its image, and we will do it together in line with President Mahama’s broader resetting agenda.”
The Case for Digital Reform
The minister emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the Commission, particularly targeting the outdated manual processes that have plagued land documentation and surveying in Ghana for decades.
“How do we change this place? How do we transform the Lands Commission to be one of the most efficient institutions where people believe things can be done faster?” he asked.
Citing personal frustration with the system, the minister revealed that it took him several months to receive a land title he had applied for—an experience that only improved after he was nominated as Minister of Lands.
“Sometimes I was told the person handling my documents was on vacation, sick, or attending a funeral. This shouldn’t happen,” he said.
“These are the kinds of bureaucratic loopholes that allow inefficiency and open the door to corruption.”
Armah Kofi Buah highlighted that nearly 90 percent of all activities at the Commission are still paper-based.
His said the proposed $165 million digital mapping initiative would include nationwide land digitization, full documentation digitalization, and the regularization of customary lands under existing law.
“If we map the entire country, this government will be the biggest beneficiary because you will be efficient, and people will be happy with your work,” he emphasized.
Tackling Corruption Through Structure And Incentives
While acknowledging the widespread perception of corruption, the minister disputed the belief that corruption is endemic or institutionalized at the Lands Commission.
“The perception is strong, but we are not giving up. We are going to prove Ghanaians wrong by showing them that this Commission can be the most transparent and accountable institution in the public sector,” Armah Kofi Buah insisted.
He also addressed the issue of staff motivation, linking poor remuneration to unethical behavior.
“When people are not motivated, they are tempted to cut corners. That’s why I will prioritize better conditions of service for the staff here,” he told employees during the visit.
“These are the things I want to work with you to change. All must go together.”
Institutional Support and Next Steps
The CEO of the Lands Commission, Ben Arthur, welcomed the minister’s reform agenda and pledged the institution’s full cooperation.
“We are happy with the minister’s vision and commitment. We will support every step toward resetting and rebuilding the public’s trust in this Commission,” Mr. Arthur said.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
