The Valuation and Estate Surveying Division of the Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS) has officially opened its 2024 annual conference, a prestigious event that convenes surveyors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to address critical challenges in sustainable land management and governance.
The three-day event, titled “Sustainable Surveying and Inclusive Governance: Mastering the Land Act 1036,” is set to explore the implications of the recently enacted Land Act 1036 on surveying practices, advocate for sustainable land use, and promote inclusive governance in land administration.
In his opening remarks, the Senior Vice President of GhIS, Surv. Dr. Anthony Arko-Adjei, highlighted the alarming resurgence of illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey, which has once again dominated Ghana’s national discourse.
The illegal mining menace, he noted, has triggered widespread concern among professional bodies, labor unions, and civil society, due to its devastating impact on the environment, public health, and the economy.
“We must explore the key provisions of the Land Act, particularly in relation to sustainable surveying. This includes the conservation of natural resources, protection of land rights, and effective land stewardship.”
Surv. Dr. Anthony Arko-Adjei, Senior Vice President of GhIS
Dr. Arko-Adjei further urged members to adhere to the regulatory framework laid out in the Land Act, reminding them of the critical provisions governing professional conduct, accountability, and standards in their field.
“By adhering to these provisions, we uphold the integrity of our profession and foster public trust,” Dr. Arko-Adjei stated.
Dr. Arko-Adjei emphasized the need for collective action to address this national crisis, reaffirming GhIS’s commitment to the fight against ‘galamsey’.
He recalled a joint statement issued by GhIS, alongside other built environment professionals, which outlined key recommendations to the government, environmental agencies, traditional authorities, and stakeholders to curb illegal mining and enhance law enforcement efforts.
Dr. Arko-Adjei also stressed the indispensable role that surveyors play in shaping the socio-economic growth of Ghana.
He noted that the GhIS annual conference provides a valuable platform for the sharing of knowledge, fostering collaboration, and building professional capacity within the surveying community. “As surveyors, we are committed to ensuring that our work contributes meaningfully to the nation’s development,” he affirmed.
The Land Act 1036, enacted in 2020, has been a focal point of the conference, with several speakers discussing its far-reaching implications for land administration and governance in Ghana.
The Chairman of the Valuation and Estate Surveying Division, Surv. Dr. Benjamin Quaye, also underscored the importance of sustainable surveying practices aligned with equity, transparency, and sustainability principles.
“Our role as valuers and estate surveyors is critical. We must ensure that land resources, which are fundamental to our socio-economic development, are managed efficiently and fairly for the benefit of all.”
Surv. Dr. Benjamin Quaye, Chairman of the Valuation and Estate Surveying Division
He expressed optimism about the opportunities presented by the Land Act 1036, which he sees as a vehicle for re-evaluating and enhancing surveying practices to align with national development objectives.
Dr. Quaye again encouraged conference participants to immerse themselves in the technical sessions and workshops, which are designed to help surveyors better understand the Act and apply its provisions in their professional activities.
Government’s Commitment to Transparent Land Governance
Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, spoke at the conference, emphasizing the government’s dedication to land reform and transparent governance.
He noted that the passage of the Land Act 1036 signifies the government’s commitment to transforming land administration in Ghana, especially through mechanisms such as electronic conveyancing and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to resolve land disputes.
“The Land Act offers significant provisions for improving land governance in Ghana. It is essential for leaders and professionals alike to familiarize themselves with these new provisions and implement them effectively.”
Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, Volta Regional Minister
The conference featured a range of technical sessions and workshops led by experts in land governance and geospatial technology.
Renowned surveyors, including Surv. Yvonne Sowah and Surv. Dr. Wordsworth Odame Larbi, delivered presentations on the practical application of the Land Act, focusing on issues such as compensation valuation and the importance of ongoing professional development to meet the evolving demands of the industry.
The event also placed significant emphasis on the need for incorporating traditional landowners into decision-making processes, ensuring that land transactions are carried out with integrity, and addressing corruption and favoritism in land management.
As the 2024 GhIS conference continues, it is expected to serve as a vital platform for generating innovative ideas, promoting networking among professionals, and shaping the future of land governance in Ghana. The conference will conclude with a ceremonial handover to Koforidua, Eastern Region, which will host the 2025 event.
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