Savannah Regional Lands Commission board inaugurated to strengthen land governance

The Savannah Regional Lands Commission Board has been inaugurated.

This event took place at the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council in Damongo.

The inauguration was held on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

It marks a significant step in decentralizing land administration.

The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources supervised the ceremony.

Mr. Alhaji Yussif Sulemana is also the Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi.

In his speech, he urged the board to ensure effective land use.

He emphasized following Ghana’s land laws for sustainable development.

Mr. Sulemana acknowledged challenges in land administration in the region.

These include disputes and petitions like one from Yagbonwura Biikunuto Jewu Soale.

He highlighted that utilizing natural resources could reduce unemployment.

This could also drive economic growth in the region.

Mr. Sulemana stressed regional autonomy for better local governance.

He encouraged handling land administration locally to reduce reliance on other regions.

“The inauguration brings governance closer to the people,” he said.

Chief Kulopowura Alhaji Haruna Sachibu chairs the new board.

He assured Mr. Sulemana of their commitment to advancing the Lands Commission's mandate.

He pledged collaboration with stakeholders and transparency in operations.

The ceremony included swearing-in of board members who took oaths of office, allegiance, and secrecy.

Under Article 258 of the 1992 Constitution, the Lands Commission has several responsibilities:

- Managing public lands and those vested in the President or Commission.
- Advising government, local authorities, and traditional leaders on land policies.
- Recommending national policies on land capability and utilization.
- Supporting registration of land titles across Ghana.
- Performing additional duties assigned by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.

The board will operate under a new Land Act.

This positions the Savannah Region to manage its land resources effectively for better governance and economic empowerment.