Green buildings essential for Ghana's future – Works and Housing Minister

The Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Kenneth Adjei, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to placing sustainability, climate resilience, and resource efficiency at the centre of Ghana’s built environment.

According to him, it is time for Ghana to move closer to investing in sustainable construction as part of efforts to advance the green economy.

Speaking at the IFC-EDGE Designing for Greater Efficiency (DfGE) Programme Close-Out Event on December 12, 2025, Adjei emphasised that the building and construction sector plays a critical role in the global climate conversation, noting that buildings alone account for nearly 40% of global energy consumption and 30% of greenhouse gas emissions.

He warned that Ghana’s rapid urbanisation is reshaping the country’s building systems.

"Rapid urbanisation is intensifying these pressures, making it imperative that we confront this reality head-on. That is why we are redefining what it means to build. Our goal is clear to create structures that minimise environmental harm, maximise resource efficiency, and enhance human well-being and prosperity," he said.

Ghana’s drive to promote sustainable housing has been at the forefront of government policy.

The minister explained that this aligns with the country’s nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement.

He further highlighted Earth Certification as a key entry point for Ghana’s progress toward its climate commitments.

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"Green buildings are no longer a luxury; they are a necessity. In the face of climate change, resource scarcity, and urban expansion, they are essential to securing a livable, equitable future for generations to come," he added.

For her part, the Senior Country Director of the IFC, Yewande Giwa, said the programme supports Ghana’s housing sector with the aim of tackling climate change-related issues such as CO₂ emissions.

She noted that the IFC’s commitment to green building is a testament to its efforts to promote sustainable construction and advance a greener energy future.

"Without proactive measures, inefficient energy and water use will lock in unsustainable patterns for decades, particularly in developing countries. Programmes like this DFGE programme are critical to reversing this trend and shaping a future where cities are not only resilient but also inclusive and sustainable. For IFC, climate mitigation is a key priority and our push for green buildings in Ghana reflects that commitment," she noted.

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