The National Tenants’ Union of Ghana has issued a pressing call for transparency and a thorough review of the National Rental Assistance Scheme (NRAS).
Launched on January 31st, 2023, by the Ministry of Works and Housing, the scheme aimed to tackle the longstanding issue of rent advance payments in the country.
However, a year after its inception, the union highlights concerns regarding the lack of transparency surrounding the beneficiaries of the scheme.
Despite reports from the Ministry, stating that 1,492 citizens have benefited from NRAS, with a total disbursement of GH₵19 million, detailed information about the recipients remains undisclosed.
In an interview on Happy 98.9fm’s Epahoa Daben show, the union emphasized the importance of transparency in governance and called for the immediate publication of the names of beneficiaries, categorized by regions and communities.
They argue that this transparency is crucial for shaping policy and ensuring that the scheme serves its intended purpose effectively.
The union further urges the Ministry of Housing to convene stakeholders’ engagements and suspend the scheme temporarily for a comprehensive review. They point out several issues that need addressing, including the high interest rate of 24% on rent loans, non-refundable loan processing fees amounting to GHC 100.00, and the duration for which the scheme provides rent advances to beneficiaries.
The National Tenants’ Union highlights the urgency of addressing these concerns, stressing that affordable housing remains a critical issue requiring attention from all stakeholders. They call upon the government and relevant authorities to prioritize transparency, accountability, and the effective implementation of policies aimed at addressing housing challenges in the country.