Graphic MD calls for the use of more local building materials to promote affordable housing
The Managing Director of Graphic Communications Group Ltd., Ato Afful, has advocated for increased use of locally sourced materials in Ghana's construction industry as a means of reducing housing costs.
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Speaking at the launch of the Graphic-GREDA Housing Fair today in Accra, Mr. Afful mentioned that the country's tropical climate offered unique opportunities for developing building materials tailored to local conditions.
He suggested that by leveraging these resources, the cost of construction could be reduced, making housing more affordable for Ghanaians.
Afful called on real estate developers and industry stakeholders to collaborate on research and development efforts to identify and refine suitable local materials.
He believes that by investing in this area, Ghana can achieve greater self-sufficiency in the construction sector and ultimately reduce the cost of housing.
"The supply gap question of residential and commercial properties at mid and lower tiers of the market remain, with its associated pricing; a function of supply and demand," he said.
"This makes the concept of affordable housing, as promulgated by the state and GREDA over the years, more pertinent, amidst our expanding urban and peri-urban populations, and the need, primarily for residential accommodation.
"In this scenario, the issue of affordability versus the importation of the majority of building materials comes to the fore. To achieve the success of this policy ambition, it is imperative that GREDA and partners in the build material segment, continue to research and explore the use of locally sourced and available materials in our buildings; bearing in mind our generally sunny, warm and humid tropical climate.
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"It is important that, developers and owners of residential and commercial properties, work with GREDA to keep exploring how we factor the elements into the design of our residential and commercial properties, including advise on the lifestyle and live stage of our homeowners/residents and users of public/commercial spaces, noting the needs of the aged and physically challenged".
The Graphic-GREDA Housing Fair, which runs until Saturday, aims to promote sustainable housing practices and provide a platform for industry players to showcase their products and services.
The fair also seeks to educate the public on the importance of due diligence when purchasing property and the benefits of green housing.
Participating companies include: SIC Insurance, Vanguard Assurance, ASHFOAM, DEVTRACO, Waylead, CCAG and Sedan Landbank. Others are Hollard Insurance, STL SUPERLOCK, Broll Ghana, Affordable Luxury Homes, Lakeside Estate, Star Properties, Spotlight Homes, Latex Foam, First National Bank, Azar Chemical Industries Limited, Regimanuel Gray Limited, Cornerstone Developments, Emerald Properties and Swami India Ghana Limited.