The Valuation and Estate Surveying Division of the Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS) has officially opened its 2024 annual conference, bringing together surveyors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to address critical issues in sustainable land management and governance.
The three-day event, which commenced on September 25 at Ho, Volta Region, is dubbed “Sustainable Surveying and Inclusive Governance: Mastering the Land Act 1036.”
It aims to delve into the implications of the Land Act 1036 on surveying practices, promote sustainable land use, and strengthen inclusive governance in land administration.
In his opening remarks, the President of the Ghana Institution of Surveyors, Surv. Dr. Anthony Arko-Adjei, FGhIS, noted that the galamsey menace has re-emerged in Ghana’s national discourse, triggering widespread concerns among organized labor professional bodies and concerned citizens.
This resurgence, he mentioned, highlights the urgent need for collective action to address the devastating effect on the environmental, social, and economic act of this illegal mining.
The GhIS reaffirms its commitment to the fight against illegal mining, as it had issued a joint statement with the built environment professionals amplifying their voice in the fight against galamsey, where several recommendations were made to the government, environmental agencies, traditional authorities, and key stakeholders to enhance prevention and law enforcement.
“Members should explore key provisions in the Land Act where sustainable surveying looks at the conservation of natural resources, protection of land rights, and stewardship.”
He advised the members not to lose sight of the critical provisions that regulate their professional conduct, guidelines, accountability, and standards.
“By understanding and adhering to these provisions, we will uphold the integrity of the profession and ensure public trust and confidence.”
He also highlighted the indispensable role surveyors play in shaping Ghana’s socio-economic growth.
“As surveyors, we are committed to ensuring that our work contributes meaningfully to the nation’s development.”
“This conference provides a valuable opportunity for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and building capacity in our profession,” he stated.
Surv. Dr. Benjamin Quaye, Chairman of the Valuation and Estate Surveying Division and Head of Special Projects at the Lands Commission, underscored the importance of sustainable surveying and land governance in his address.
“Our role as valuers and estate surveyors is critical. We must align our work with the principles of equity, transparency, and sustainability to ensure that land resources, which are fundamental to our socio-economic development, are managed efficiently and fairly for the benefit of all.”
Surv. Dr. Quaye expressed excitement about the opportunities presented by the Land Act 1036.
“This Act allows us to re-evaluate our practices and ensure they are in line with national development objectives,” he said.
“We look forward to mastering its provisions and implementing them in our day-to-day work.”
On his part, Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, also emphasized the vital role surveyors play in the country’s development and encouraged participants to critically engage with the conference theme.
He noted that the passage of the Land Act 1036 is a testament to the government’s commitment to transforming land administration in Ghana.
Dr. Letsa further remarked on the government’s commitment to transparent land governance.
He urged leaders to understand the new provisions introduced by the Land Act, such as electronic conveyancing and the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in resolving land disputes to alleviate pressure on traditional courts.
The conference features technical sessions, workshops, and keynote addresses by renowned experts in land governance and geospatial technology.
Togbe Ayim Adzokoto III on behalf of Togbe Afede XIV, Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, highlighted the key provisions of the Land Act 1036, including the criminalization of landguard activities, the establishment of the Customary Land Secretariat, and the fiduciary role of chiefs and traditional authorities in land management.
He advised that professionals ought to manage their lands and natural resources transparently and embrace modern technology like drones and AI to enhance surveying and mapping processes.
The event also addressed the importance of incorporating traditional landowners in decision-making processes and emphasized the need to conduct land transactions with integrity, free from corruption and favoritism.
Surv. Yvonne Sowah and Surv. Dr. Wordsworth Odame Larbi delivered insightful presentations on the practical implementation of the Land Act, focusing on compensation valuation and the need for professional upskilling.
As the GhIS annual conference progresses, it is expected to serve as a platform for developing new ideas and fostering professional networking, all aimed at shaping the future of land governance in Ghana.
Surv. Timothy Anyidoho FGhIS also acknowledged the immense efforts of the Divisional Chairman, VES Divisional Committee, Members of the Planning Committee, and members who volunteered in various ways to assist in the planning of the conference.
“As we prepare to hand over the torch to the Host City, Koforidua, Eastern Region for Conference 2025, I wish that even greater commitment is shown. VES, Step High.”
Gracing the occasion were Surv. Alhaji Suleman Mahama,past president of GhIS; Surv. James Dadson,also Past President; and Surv. Wordsworth Odame Larbi.
These three are Past Executive Secretaries of the Lands Commission.
Current Executive Secretary, Surv. Benjamin Arthur; Deputy Executive Secretary in charge of Operations, Surv. Maxwell Adu Nsafoa; among other members, were also present.
The speakers delivered insightful presentations on enhancing professional skills for the effective implementation of the Land Act 1036.
They also discussed the strategic plan for implementing valuation and estate surveying, emphasizing how the Land Act can drive good land governance through change management.
Day 2 of the conference, currently underway, features discussions on several critical topics, including Digitalizing Real Estate Regulation: Introducing a Streamlined Licensing Platform for Ghana’s Real Estate Sector, Youth and Women’s Participation in Customary Land Governance: Evaluating Inclusiveness and Decision-Making Structures in the Context of Land Regulations; Legislative Ambiguities and Gaps in the Land Act; Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Efficient Land Administration: Opportunities, Challenges, and Implications for Sustainable Development; and Ground Lease Renewals in Ghana – A Need for Policy Direction?
END
COMMS UPDATES
