Otumfuo Tells State Housing Boss To Stop Relying Solely On Gov’t Funds

The Monarch of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has challenged the current Managing Director of State Housing Company (SHC), John Bawah, to explore effective funding options other than subventions.

His Majesty suggested mortgages, partnerships and other strategic avenues that could be exploited for the company’s infrastructure development mandate.

“You have to find other means to fund your projects and wean from government funding… If planned strategically, you will be able to secure funding to develop your projects. ECOWAS Bank is available,” Otumfuo remarked during a courtesy call by the Management of the company.

“There is no bankable project which will be denied if you are able to defend it. You can also put some of your land into equity. Partnership is another idea. Don’t sit and wait for the government.”

The Asantehene emphasized that this was a prerequisite for the company to be financially independent and expand its tentacles.

“By this, you wouldn’t have to wait for government subvention. If private developers are able to do it, why can’t you replicate with the upper hand you wield.”

The occupant of the Golden Stool also called attention to abandoned estates saying, “Devise strategies to make them all profitable. You can sell such off to get your capital.”

Another concern raised had to do with the outmoded designs of infrastructure being developed by the company.

His Majesty counselled the Management to adopt contemporary designs to be able to compete and attract public interest.

“Vary your designs so that people will gain interest in it. Adopt modern designs.”

Otumfuo further expressed his concern about the Company’s abandonment of the Adesua land he freely gave the government to be developed and urged the new MD to mobilise the resources needed to begin work.

Expressing his support, the King advised the group to synergise for the benefit of the company.

“The government has entrusted you with this mandate. All you need to do is collaborate with your brothers and sisters here to do it.”

Mr Bawa was at the Manhyia Palace on May 30, 2025, purposely to introduce himself to the King and seek his blessings.

Accompanying him were Kingsley Hagan, Ashanti Regional Zonal Head; Benedicta Antwi, Senior Estate Officer; Augustus Quartey, Internal Auditor; and Francisca Hayford, Personal Assistant to the Managing Director.

Source: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/