Ghana’s Housing Deficit Surpasses 1.8 Million Units – Works and Housing Minister

Ghana’s housing deficit has climbed to more than 1.8 million units, a situation worsened by growing affordability challenges that continue to restrict access to adequate housing for many low- and middle-income households, Minister for Works and Housing Kenneth Gilbert Adjei has revealed.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the minister said rapid urbanisation remains a major pressure point. Over half of the country’s population currently lives in urban centres, a figure projected to rise above 72% by 2050, placing intense demand on housing in cities such as Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi.

Mr. Adjei described the national housing situation as increasingly concerning, warning that supply gaps combined with high property costs have pushed decent housing out of reach for many Ghanaians.

“Ghana continues to face a major housing shortfall, now estimated at over 1.8 million units,” he stated. “This deficit is compounded by widespread affordability issues that make it difficult for especially low- and middle-income earners to secure safe and dignified accommodation.”

He added that the inability of housing supply to match rising demand has resulted in overcrowding, soaring rent and property prices, and the rapid expansion of informal settlements.

According to the minister, the current situation demands urgent, coordinated, and forward-looking policies to expand housing supply, improve affordability, and promote sustainable urban development that aligns with Ghana’s demographic growth.