The President of the Architectural Society of Ghana, Charles Amissah-Koomson, has urged architects and other professionals in the construction industry to prioritise public safety and responsible building practices over profit.
He said the growing cases of building collapses and flooding across the country were putting lives and property at risk while also raising concerns about the safety and reliability of Ghana’s built environment.
According to Mr Amissah-Koomson, architects have a critical responsibility to ensure that buildings are properly designed, constructed and maintained in accordance with approved safety standards.
He called for stronger leadership and effective oversight within the construction sector to ensure that regulations are not only established but strictly enforced.
Mr Amissah-Koomson also stressed the need to improve the training of local builders, arguing that the quality of workmanship is an important part of ensuring the safety and durability of buildings.
He said strengthening the skills and capacity of local artisans and builders would help reduce construction-related risks and promote better building practices across the country.
The Architectural Society of Ghana President further called for reforms to make the building permit process more efficient and responsive.
He said a more effective permitting system would help improve compliance, reduce unnecessary delays and ensure that construction projects are properly assessed before work begins.
Mr Amissah-Koomson also proposed the creation of a digital register of architects that would be accessible to the public.
He said such a system would improve transparency and accountability by enabling individuals and organisations to verify the credentials of professionals before engaging their services.
He believes the proposed measures, together with stronger regulatory oversight and improved professional standards, will help restore public confidence in the construction sector.
Mr Amissah-Koomson said prioritising safety, professionalism and responsible development would ultimately contribute to safer, more resilient and sustainable communities across Ghana.
Story Ama Frimpomaa