Accra: Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation and Religious Affairs, has underscored the importance of building cities that are inclusive, prosperous, green, and livable for all. Emphasizing that cities are living environments shaped by culture, heritage, and human values, he noted that inclusive cities ensure equal access to opportunities, services, and spaces for everyone, regardless of gender, age, income, ethnicity, or ability. This statement was made during the launch of the Ghana Sustainable Cities Strategy (GSCS) in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ibrahim highlighted the rapid urbanization in Ghana, with over 56.7% of the population residing in urban areas, a figure projected to rise to 60.7% by 2030. He described the GSCS as more than a strategic document, labeling it a national commitment and a blueprint for reshaping Ghana's urban landscape to meet current needs and future demands. The strategy complements the revised National Urban Policy, providing a coherent framework for guiding urban development, mobilizing resources, and building institutional capacity for sustainable urban growth.
Aligned with both continental and global development agendas, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 11, the GSCS is grounded in robust data from the 2021 Population and Housing Census and local urban research. Mr. Ibrahim stressed that sustainable urban development requires a whole-of-society approach, involving local authorities, traditional leaders, religious leaders, and communities. He committed the Ministry to collaborate with the National Development Planning Commission and all stakeholders to integrate the strategy into development plans and investment programs.
The Minister also urged the youth, whom he called "architects of tomorrow's cities," to actively participate in building future cities that reflect aspirations, resilience, and shared values. Supporting this vision, Mr. Robert R. Taliercio, World Bank Division Director, noted that Ghana's Infrastructure Plan (2019) estimates $37 billion annually is needed to support economic growth and improve quality of life by 2047. He pointed out the impact of urban floods on people and infrastructure, particularly in informal settlements, and stressed the need to strengthen urban policies and enforcement.
Mr. Taliercio emphasized the role of traditional authorities in sustainable land-use planning, given that 80% of land in Ghana, including urban areas, is under customary ownership. He assured that the World Bank is ready to support the GSCS implementation, aiming for urban growth that is green, resilient, inclusive, and prosperous for all.
