Saglemi Housing Project: Oppong Nkrumah says 10 Private Companies have expressed Interest

Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has announced that ten private companies have expressed interest in completing the stalled Affordable Housing Project at Saglemi.

The project, initiated by the previous NDC administration, saw the completion of 1,506 out of an estimated 5,000 housing units funded by a $200 million loan.

The current administration halted the project upon taking office, citing alleged irregularities in the contract awarding process and subsequently leaving the project dormant while investigations were conducted.

Recently reassigned from the Information Ministry, Minister Oppong Nkrumah informed the press in Parliament on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, that the government has solicited proposals from local and international construction firms to revive the project.

Cabinet has resolved to select a private developer or consortium to invest in the project following an assessment by the Ghana Institute of Surveyors, which estimated an additional $100 million is needed to complete and operationalize the housing units.

“Currently, about ten entities have expressed interest and are undergoing the selection process. We expect to receive their bids by the 8th of July. We are also in the process of selecting an independent evaluation organization, which will be approved by the PPA to conduct the evaluation. Based on their findings, we will make our final decision,” Minister Oppong Nkrumah explained.

He also reiterated the government’s dedication to finishing all incomplete affordable housing projects across the country. Highlighting other initiatives, he mentioned, “In Koforidua, we are also working to re-award a contract for one of President Kuffuor’s affordable housing projects that has been pending since before 2008. The State Housing Company, following our directive, is actively working on this.”

The Minister further noted the progress made in other regions, stating, “At TDC, we have completed about 1,000 units since 2020 and are about to commence construction on an additional 800 units.”

This renewed commitment signifies a strategic move to address the housing deficit in Ghana and provide affordable housing solutions to the populace.

Source: Clement Akoloh || parliamentnews360.com