State Housing issues final warning to encroachers on state lands

The State Housing Company Limited (SHC) has issued a final warning to individuals and entities illegally occupying its lands and properties nationwide.

The statement, issued by SHC’s Public Relations Department in collaboration with the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, follows a nationwide land audit that revealed high levels of unauthorized occupation, encroachment, and development.

The notice underscores the government’s directive to protect state assets and ensure orderly development.

“Our recent nationwide land audit has revealed significant levels of unauthorized occupation, encroachment, and development on SHC-owned lands and properties,” the company said, emphasizing that such activities hinder its mandate to provide quality, affordable homes for Ghanaians.

SHC urged all encroachers to halt development immediately and report to any SHC office within 21 days for verification and possible regularization.

“Stop all development activities immediately and submit an application for formal regularization, subject to the Company’s planning and zoning requirements,” the statement advised.

The company reminded the public that state lands are protected under Ghanaian law, particularly the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), and that unauthorized occupation constitutes both criminal and civil offenses.

“SHC hereby serves notice to all persons, groups, entities, and developers who are occupying, developing, selling, leasing, or laying claim to any SHC land or property without valid and verifiable documents issued by the Company to cease such activities immediately

“The public is reminded that State Lands are protected under the Laws of Ghana, particularly the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036,) which reinforces the protection of State Lands and outlines the procedures for the management and recovery of such lands. Unauthorized occupation constitutes a criminal and civil offense under the Laws of Ghana.

“We will not hesitate to take decisive actions, including legal proceedings, demolition of unauthorized structures, and recovery of lands and properties,” the statement warned.

Members of the public were also advised to verify all land and property transactions directly with SHC.

“SHC shall not be liable to losses incurred through dealings with unauthorized persons,” the company added.

The statement urged Individuals or entities seeking clarification to contact SHC’s Head Office at Ring Road West, Accra, call 0302-221422, or email info@statehousing.gov.gh.