Encroachment Crisis: SSNIT Lands Worth GH¢851 Million Under Threat

An audit by the Auditor-General has revealed widespread encroachment on nine undeveloped Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) properties across Ghana, collectively valued at GH¢851.2 million. The findings raise serious concerns about the protection and management of the pension fund’s assets.

The 2024 Auditor-General’s Report indicates that SSNIT lands in Accra, Kasoa, Kumasi, Ho, Wa, and Koforidua have been partially or fully taken over by private individuals and developers, with some areas showing no trace of SSNIT’s original ownership. In total, 3,161.25 acres are affected.

The most heavily impacted sites include Bortianor (1,278.68 acres), Akweley Nkwanta (640 acres), and Odupong Ofankor (500 acres) in the Greater Accra Region, all of which have been fully encroached. Other parcels in Wa, Dunkonah, Klagon (Nungua), Ho, and Akwadum have suffered partial encroachment. A 3.93-acre parcel at Adum in Kumasi, valued at GH¢9.8 million, remains unregistered under SSNIT, making it vulnerable to potential ownership disputes.

“The inspection at Bortianor and Odupong lands confirmed full occupation by encroachers,” the report noted, warning that without urgent corrective action, SSNIT could permanently lose these properties. The Auditor-General also highlighted the potential financial burden of legal proceedings to reclaim the lands, which could impact the Trust’s cash flow and investment capacity.

The report cited breaches of Section 52 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), which mandates public institutions to safeguard assets against theft, loss, or misuse.

In response, SSNIT management said it has implemented a comprehensive land protection strategy, including fencing, constructing security posts, and installing boundary pillars at strategic sites. Efforts are also underway to regularize land titles and secure remaining properties.

“Steps are being taken to safeguard almost all SSNIT lands, in line with the strategy approved by our Board of Trustees in March and April 2023,” the Trust said.

The Auditor-General recommended that SSNIT regularize ownership of all affected lands, pursue legal action where necessary, and strengthen controls to prevent future encroachments.