President John Dramani Mahama has expressed concern over the continued violation of Ghana’s rent advance laws, warning that weak enforcement is allowing landlords to exploit desperate tenants.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the Green City Project at Dedesua in the Ashanti Region, the President said although Ghana’s laws limit rent advance payments to a maximum of six months, many landlords continue to demand excessive upfront payments from prospective tenants.
He noted that enforcement remains a major challenge because tenants, often under pressure to secure accommodation, are unwilling to report landlords who flout the law.
“We have a rent court that is supposed to prosecute cases where house owners take more than six months. Unfortunately, both the house owner and the one who wants to rent the property are not prepared to go and report,” he said.
According to President Mahama, the fear of losing accommodation opportunities has left many tenants vulnerable to unfair housing practices.
“The one who wants to rent needs a place to lay his head, and the landlord also wants money to invest in something,” he added.
He stressed that government’s housing agenda is focused on restoring fairness, protecting tenants, and ensuring dignified access to accommodation.
“Our goal is simple — fairness, protection, and dignity for tenants,” the President stated.
President Mahama also highlighted the role of the National Home Ownership Fund, saying it would continue to provide long-term financing support, particularly for retirees, to help them secure homes after years of service.
He said the newly launched Green City Project comes at a crucial time as government steps up efforts to address Ghana’s growing housing deficit and expand access to affordable housing nationwide.
