President of the Africa Diplomatic Mission of the United Nations Peace Ambassadors Foundation Africa (UNPAF), Her Royal Highness Hajia Adiza Baba Issah, has advised Ghanaians to conduct thorough due diligence before purchasing land, stressing that proper verification can help reduce flooding and other environmental challenges.
She made these comments during the UNPAF General Assembly Conference Meeting 2026, held on Friday, June 26, at the Korsah Conference Hall in Accra. The meeting was held under the theme: “The Role of Traditional Chiefs, Queenmothers, Youth and Law Enforcement for Sustainable Peace, Security, and Development During, Before, and After Homowo Festival 2026.”
According to Her Royal Highness Hajia Adiza Baba Issah, rapid migration to Accra has led to increased congestion, putting pressure on available land and contributing to indiscriminate development.
“The high rate of migration has made Accra congested, and in the rush to acquire land, many people fail to conduct the necessary checks before purchasing plots.”
She explained that some of the lands being sold are waterlogged or situated on waterways, and when developed, they obstruct the natural flow of water, increasing the risk of flooding during the rainy season.
“Many people unknowingly build on waterlogged lands and waterways because they do not verify the status of the land before purchasing it. This blocks the natural path of water and contributes to flooding.”
Her Royal Highness Hajia Adiza Baba Issah urged prospective land buyers to consult the relevant planning and building authorities to determine whether a parcel of land is suitable for construction before making any purchase.
“Before buying any land, engage the appropriate local authorities to confirm that it is suitable for building. This simple step can help prevent future disasters.”
She also appealed to landowners and developers to act responsibly by refraining from selling or developing waterlogged lands.
“Landowners should avoid selling waterlogged lands for development because doing so puts lives and property at risk.”
She further called on the public to adopt environmentally responsible practices, including keeping drainage systems free from waste, stressing that healthy living begins with protecting our environment.
She also advised residents to heed weather warnings, especially during periods of heavy rainfall, by limiting unnecessary movement and returning home early whenever rainfall is forecast.
“Whenever the authorities announce that heavy rains are expected, people should take the warnings seriously and return home early to avoid unforeseen disasters.”
