Headlines for African Home Building News
Ghana’s State Housing Company Hands Over 24-Unit Apartment Complex to Immigration Service in Savelugu
Cement Prices in Ghana Remain Unchanged Despite Appreciation of Cedi
US Housing Market Faces Inventory Crunch Despite Rate Cuts
Despite a surge in social media chatter suggesting a drop in cement prices—particularly for GHACEM 32R—market checks across Accra reveal a contrasting reality. Retailers say prices remain unchanged, with the 32R variant still selling at around GHS 120 per bag.
This comes at a time when the Ghana cedi is recording one of its strongest performances in years, prompting public expectations that the cost of goods, especially critical inputs like cement, would decline. However, traders insist that the currency appreciation has yet to influence prices on the ground.
According to some retailers, the price of GHACEM 32R actually rose by about GHS 9 between late 2024 and February 2025, hitting GHS 120 per bag. “There hasn’t been any price reduction. I even placed an order at 105 cedis per bag, and I’m yet to receive it—so all those reports are just hearsay,” said Atta Boafo, a cement retailer.
Another retailer, David Nartey, also pushed back against the viral reports: “I received my goods today and the factory price is GHS 120. I retail it at GHS 130.”
Traders attribute the static or rising prices to persistent challenges in the cement value chain. Key among them are high transportation costs, rising prices of raw materials, and ongoing supply chain bottlenecks.Clinker, the key ingredient in cement production, remains in short supply—an issue that retailers say must be tackled before consumers can expect any real price relief. “We understand clinker is in short supply, so if there’s enough of it—and that combines with the stable exchange rate—it could push prices down and offer some relief,” one retailer added.
Retailers are now calling on the government to prioritise the clinker supply situation, warning that without addressing these structural issues, cement prices will remain elevated, regardless of currency gains.
The State Housing Company Limited (SHCL) has officially handed over a newly completed four-storey, 24-unit apartment complex to the Ghana Immigration Service in Savelugu, Northern Region. The residential project was commissioned by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, as part of government’s broader agenda to support national security through dignified and sustainable housing infrastructure.
Initially launched in 2016 under an agreement between SHCL and the Ghana Immigration Service, the project is aimed at addressing the critical housing needs of junior officers stationed at the Tamale International Airport and other areas along Ghana’s northern security corridor. The new facility is expected to improve the welfare and operational efficiency of security personnel.
Speaking at the commissioning, Minister Muntaka praised SHCL’s commitment to quality delivery, highlighting how improved accommodation directly contributes to the morale and effectiveness of Ghana’s frontline officers. The Acting Comptroller-General of the Immigration Service, Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, also expressed deep appreciation to the government for addressing the long-standing housing deficit within the Service.
Managing Director of SHCL, Mr. John S. Bawah, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to providing affordable and durable housing, especially for essential service workers. He said the project is a reflection of SHCL’s broader mission to contribute to national development through smart housing interventions.
In a bold continuation of the government’s housing agenda for security personnel, Ghana’s Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has broken ground for a second 24-unit apartment project in Savelugu. The new facility will cater specifically to senior officers of the Ghana Immigration Service, and is located adjacent to the newly commissioned complex for junior staff.
State Housing Company Limited (SHCL) has once again been tapped to lead the development, which will feature enhanced amenities tailored to the unique needs of senior personnel. According to SHCL Managing Director, Mr. John S. Bawah, the project will meet the same standards of durability, comfort, and affordability as the first, with a design that reflects the elevated responsibilities of senior officers.
Minister Muntaka described the initiative as part of a national strategy to enhance the working and living conditions of security personnel across all ranks, ensuring they are well-positioned to serve the country with commitment and professionalism.
The Ghana Immigration Service, which has long grappled with housing shortages, is expected to see a significant boost in morale and operational readiness upon the completion of the project.
In the United States, the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cuts have slightly boosted homebuyer sentiment, but a persistent housing inventory shortage continues to limit sales. As of May 2025, housing stock remains near historic lows, with many homeowners reluctant to sell due to previous low-rate mortgages. Cities like Austin, Nashville, and Miami are particularly affected, with listings down more than 20% year-on-year.
Experts say new construction and policy reforms will be crucial to closing the supply gap and stabilizing prices.
Source : Joyceln Marigold, African Home Building News
