Customary Land Rights project in Ghana's interest - Nana Ama Yirrah

Omidyar Network, a Non-Governmental Organization operating in Ghana has outlined some initiatives which they believe when adopted by all stakeholders in the land sector will bring about massive improvement and benefits.

The initiative which includes the introduction of the customary land rights documentation in Ghana, seeks to build the capacity of customary land authorities to be able to preside over the recordation of land rights.

In Ghana, the pivotal role of land as a crucial resource for socio-economic development cannot be overlooked. But with an increasing demand for land which can be attributed to rapid population growth and investor interest coupled with a weak land governance system, the issue of documentation has become necessary and of great importance.

Speaking at a high level stakeholder’s workshop to deliberate on all current funded initiatives by Omidyar in the land sector, Executive Director for Colandef, Nana Ama Yirrah said the NGO was working with all the relevant stakeholders including government and traditional rulers to produce a handbook that adequately address all land related issues.

This book she added, will be applicable to every situation that will raise with regards to customary land rights in the country.

“We are looking at providing the right environment for individuals to benefit from a process that will strengthen land tenure security. So with regards to our customary land rights project that we are doing, we will be coming out with a hand book that gives attention to documenting land right at the local level which will be accepted by all. This will mean that we will not have just land commissions registration but also documentation at the local level. So if you are at the local level, you will benefit. Land registration also includes surveying and so far we have had many ways of doing that which has brought about issues, so we will be introducing new and innovate ways in the area of surveying.”

Within the system of land administration at the customary level, a software will also be used by the various traditional authorities to manage records on land such that these documents are never lost.

She further called for support from the media and stakeholders to help push the agenda which is believed to be in the nation’s interest.

“We want to work with you as partners to follow through with this initiative so that the result will be integrated in our land sector” she said.

On his part, the minister for lands and natural resources, Mr. Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh lauded Omidyar Network and pledge the support of his ministry to the cause.

“I want to commend Colandef, Meridia and micro-aerial project for their tenacious effort in contributing to the common goal of creating an environment that protects people’s right and interests in the access, ownership, transfer, documentation and resolution of disputes relating to land in the country. The ministry welcomes you as partners and is willing to work together towards the realization of mutually beneficial outcomes for this nation.” He noted.