In the last decade, Ghana has experienced a surge in green building developments, reflecting the
nation’s dedicated pursuit of sustainable development.
This article aims to spotlight three noteworthy green building projects in Ghana, delving into
their developers, and examining the profound impacts they have had on both the environment
and local communities.
Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel – Crafted by Kingdom Holdings Ghana:
Situated in Accra, the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel is a testament of sustainable design and
energy efficiency.
Developed by Kingdom Holdings Ghana, a subsidiary of Kingdom Holding Company, this hotel
incorporates a host of eco-friendly features such as efficient HVAC systems, energy-saving
lighting, and water-conserving plumbing fixtures. Additionally, the building harnesses renewable
energy sources, including solar panels, to curtail its environmental impact.
The impact of this development has been transformative on two fronts. Firstly, it has
substantially diminished the carbon footprint of the hotel, catalyzing a broader shift toward
sustainable practices within the hospitality industry.
Secondly, the green initiative has become a catalyst for job creation in local communities,
fostering economic growth and social development in Ghana. Such positive impacts serve as a
compelling example for other developers to prioritize sustainability.
Worawora Eco-Village – Engineered by Impact Stewardship Ghana:
Located in the Volta Region, the Worawora Eco-Village, developed by Impact Stewardship
Ghana (ISG), represents a groundbreaking project with a dual mission: to provide affordable
housing to low-income communities and minimize its ecological impact.
The village employs sustainable construction materials, including local clay bricks and bamboo,
thereby reducing dependence on resource-intensive materials like concrete and steel.
The impact of the Worawora Eco-Village extends across various dimensions. Firstly, it addresses
the housing needs of vulnerable communities by providing affordable and energy-efficient
homes.
Secondly, the project prioritizes sustainable water and waste management systems, ensuring
minimal environmental degradation in the surrounding area. Finally, by incorporating sustainable
agricultural practices and promoting local farming, the eco-village fosters food security and
economic stability within the community.
‘Inno-native’ Home, Accra Ghana – A Vision Realized by Joe Osae Addo:
Driven by a determination to create an exquisite eco-friendly residence for his family in Ghana,
Joe Osae-Addo’s ‘Inno-native’ Home exemplifies sustainability.
Constructed primarily with locally-sourced materials such as timber and adobe mud blocks, the
house employs innovative design elements like sliding slatted-wood screens and jalousie
windows, promoting cross ventilation.
Raised three feet above the ground, the dwelling capitalizes on the cooling underfloor breeze.
Despite being connected to the national grid, solar panels are installed for both backup electricity
and water heating, and the entire project was accomplished with a commendable budget of
US$50,000.
The impact of this green development resonates on multiple levels. Firstly, it sets an exemplary
standard for the hospitality industry, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of sustainable
construction practices.
Secondly, the home’s emphasis on water conservation and renewable energy inspires
environmental stewardship among visitors and local communities. Lastly, the project aids in
mitigating the environmental challenges faced by Ghana by reducing the strain on the country’s
water and energy resources.
The trio of green building developments in Ghana, comprising the Mövenpick Ambassador
Hotel, Worawora Eco-Village, and the ‘Inno-native’ Home, exemplify the nation’s unwavering
commitment to sustainable development.
Spearheaded by developers such as Kingdom Holdings Ghana, Impact Stewardship Ghana, and
the visionary Joe Osae-Addo, Ghana has witnessed gains in sustainable construction practices.
These developments have resulted in reduced carbon footprints, improved resource efficiency,
employment generation, social development, and heightened environmental consciousness.
Source : African Property Magazine -Joycelyn Marigold