The Ahafo Regional Co-ordinating Council (AhRCC) has inaugurated the Regional Spatial Planning Committee (RSPC) to steer spatial and land use planning activities across the region for a four (4) year term,
2025–2028. The event took place on Tuesday, 22nd July, 2025 at the AhRCC Conference Hall in Goaso, bringing together key stakeholders from government agencies, traditional authorities, planning institutions, and civil society.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Sampson Amoako Kwarteng, Chief Director of the Ahafo RCC, who represented the Regional Minister, stated that the purpose of the gathering was to formally constitute and empower the
Regional Spatial Planning Committee to provide leadership and technical direction in land use planning, spatial development, and infrastructure coordination across the region. He explained that the inauguration signified a renewed commitment to orderly development, protection of natural resources, and the promotion of well-structured human settlements in line with national planning standards.
As part of the proceedings, members of the committee were formally sworn in by Mr. Sampson Amoako Kwarteng, the Chief Director of the Ahafo RCC, who administered the Official Oath, Oath of Allegiance, and
Oath of Secrecy on behalf of the Ahafo Regional Minister, Hon (Mrs.) Charity Gardiner.
In his address, delivered on behalf of the Ahafo Regional Minister, Mr. Sampson Amoako Kwarteng emphasized the importance of the Spatial Planning Committee in promoting co-ordinated, sustainable and inclusive development across the region. He noted that the establishment of the committee is in accordance with the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, 2016 (Act 925), which mandates spatial planning bodies at national, regional, and district levels to oversee land use management and planning activities.
Mr. Kwarteng urged the committee to operate with integrity and diligence, especially as Ahafo navigates increasing development pressure due to its status as one of Ghana’s youngest but rapidly growing regions. He called for collaboration among institutions and urged the committee to engage traditional leaders, communities and district assemblies in their planning processes.
The newly inaugurated committee is made up of representatives from key decentralized departments, including the Lands Commission, Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority, Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), Forestry Commission, Ghana Highway Authority, National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Economic Development Planning Unit, Regional House of Chiefs, Ghana National Fire Service, Department of Agriculture, Water Resources Commission and NEDCO/VRA.
The Regional Spatial Planning Committee will be responsible for guiding the preparation and review of spatial development frameworks, structure plans and local plans across the Ahafo Region. It will also advise on land use decisions, resolve planning disputes and ensure alignment with national development priorities.
In his closing remarks, also delivered on behalf of the Regional Minister, Chief Director Mr. Sampson Amoako Kwarteng expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their presence and commitment. He urged the committee to work diligently and collaboratively in fulfilling their mandate, stressing that proper spatial planning is a key driver for long-term development, investment attraction and improved quality of life for the people of Ahafo.
The RCC pledged its continued support, including the provision of technical assistance and resources, to ensure that the committee performs effectively throughout its four-year term.
