President John Mahama has directed the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Lands Commission to conduct a sweeping audit of all state lands allocated, leased, or sold between 2017 and 2024.
Speaking at the inauguration of the reconstituted National Lands Commission on Tuesday, September 2, the President said any illegal or improper deals uncovered will be reversed and the lands duly recovered for the state. He revealed that the Sale of State Lands Committee had already begun its work and is expected to submit its findings in the coming weeks.
Alongside the audit order, President Mahama announced the lifting of the temporary ban on state land transactions, which had been in place since January 10, 2025. He stressed that future allocations, leases, or sales must follow transparent procedures, integrate digital verification systems, and be subject to strict oversight.
The President also drew attention to gender imbalance on the new commission, noting that only one woman is currently serving on the board. He urged stronger enforcement of the Affirmative Action Law, which requires all governing institutions to allocate at least 30 per cent of positions to women.
Mahama emphasized that gender inclusion is not optional but a mandatory principle that must guide all public institutions going forward.
