Ghana’s National Homeownership Fund (NHF) will host a two-day national conference in October 2026. This event aims to find innovative solutions for the country’s significant housing finance challenges. The conference seeks to address the estimated 1.8 million housing unit deficit.
The conference, scheduled for October 7 and 8, 2026, will bring together local and international stakeholders. Its primary goal is to mobilize expertise, financing, and partnerships for affordable housing delivery. This initiative comes as over 30% of Ghana’s existing housing stock is considered inadequate.
This effort fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of improving living standards and infrastructure. The housing deficit impacts economic productivity and social equity. Addressing it is crucial for sustainable development and poverty reduction. Previous government initiatives have struggled to meet the growing demand for affordable housing.
Mr. Prosper Hoetu, CEO of the NHF, highlighted key issues in an interview with the Ghana News Agency. He stated that only 5% of Ghanaians can independently afford a home. A staggering 60% require government assistance, while 35% need social housing. These figures underscore the severe affordability crisis in the housing market.
The conference will address structural barriers limiting access to decent housing. These include limited access to long-term financing and high interest rates. Mortgage interest rates often exceed 30%, making formal housing finance inaccessible. The mortgage-to-GDP ratio remains below 0.3%, indicating a nascent and underdeveloped mortgage market.
The NHF aims to catalyze a fundamental shift in how housing finance is structured and delivered. This includes seeking high-level political endorsement for housing finance reforms. The conference will generate actionable recommendations and facilitate financing agreements. It will also develop a roadmap for integrating climate resilience and green building standards.
Key government officials and international partners will attend the opening session. Four thematic panel discussions will cover crucial areas. These include mortgage financing, construction financing, climate and green housing, and informal and social housing. These discussions will explore ways to reduce mortgage rates and extend loan tenures.
The event will also focus on developing local currency mortgage products. Expanding access for informal sector workers is another critical objective. Attracting long-term capital into the housing market is essential for sustainable growth. Solutions for developers' challenges, such as high borrowing costs, will also be explored.
An exhibition will provide a platform for financial institutions and developers. Technology providers and development partners will showcase innovative products. This includes green building technologies and successful affordable housing projects. This practical component aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Expected outcomes include a communiqué with shared commitments. New or revised affordable housing loan products are also anticipated. A technical working group on green affordable housing finance will be established. The NHF also plans to operationalize its homebuyer database and off-take guarantee framework. A follow-up review is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.