Housing initiatives a boost for national security

Housing is a basic tool for economic development. Good housing attracts labour and contributes to an increased productivity, and has the added effect of stimulating the development of other resources in the economy. 

The importance of housing to a country or society has well been documented. A survey by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC, 2019)) revealed that 70 per cent of respondents felt safer when living in well-maintained and secure housing. A UN-Habitat study also found that improved housing conditions could lead to a 30 per cent reduction in crime rates (UN-Habitat, 2015), while UN Habitat again in 2018 established that good housing could foster community cohesion, which was critical for national security. 

Relatedly, decent housing provides a sense of stability and comfort for our security agencies, boosting their morale and enabling them to focus on their duties. Good housing conditions also help security personnel get adequate rest, ensuring they remain alert and focused while on duty. Again, housing for security personnel often includes accommodation for their families, providing a sense of security and support, which is critical for their mental well-being.

In a country where our security is of utmost importance, good housing conditions can aid in retaining experienced personnel and attracting new recruits to the security services

These data, among others, demonstrate the significant impact of good housing. Any initiative, therefore, that seeks to increase the housing stock must be embraced by all well-meaning citizens. 

Although Ghana's housing deficit has reduced by 33 per cent from 2.8 million in 2010 to 1.8 million in 2021, there is still a long way to go to meet the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 which targets sustainable cities and communities, which encompasses affordable and sustainable housing for the population.

In a significant move in this respect and to enhance the welfare and efficiency of Ghana's security services, the government has in recent times inaugurated various housing projects for the military, police and other security agencies. Additionally, the President last week inaugurated 320 housing units for personnel of the Ghana Police Service at the Police Training School in Tesano, Accra.

Similarly, Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia has also inaugurated housing units for the military, further solidifying the government's dedication to improving the living conditions of security personnel. 

The Daily Graphic sees these projects as a testament to the government's recognition of the critical role security services play in maintaining national stability and security.

We note the involvement of private developers in these projects as highlighting the potential for public-private partnerships in driving development.

As the government continues to implement initiatives that will provide decent accommodation to our security, the Daily Graphic proposes the need to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities. It is heartwarming that the Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, has rightly emphasised this point, urging the Ghana Police Service to take care of the new buildings. 

The maintenance of the facilities is crucial to ensure their longevity and continued benefit to the security services. To this end. the government can allocate funds specifically for maintenance, and also collaborate with private sector entities who can provide access to expertise and resources to support effective maintenance..

The Daily Graphic commends the government for such laudable efforts and wish that they are extended to other category of workers since good housing attracts labour and contributes to increased productivity,