The Ashanti Regional Director of the Rent Control Department, Mr Douglas McKenzie Kpodo, has appealed to the government to consider and also urgently address the critical logistical and infrastructural challenges confronting the department in the region.
Rent Control Department functions as a quasi-judicial body, established by government to provide Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in housing matters.
Speaking to The Chronicle, the Regional Director complained about the poor state of his outfit’s operational environment, adding that the dilapidated nature of the department’s facilities were severely hampering their ability to deliver efficient service to the public.
“Our office building which was constructed over 70 years ago is now in a deplorable state and no longer fit for purpose”, Mr. McKenzie lamented.
The said building also houses the regional offices of National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and Complementary Education Agency (Ministry of Education).
He stated that despite numerous petitions and follow-ups over the past decade, very little has been done to improve their working conditions.
The Regional Director further revealed that the department continues to struggle with outdated infrastructure, inadequate furniture, limited office equipment and rising utility cost, especially electricity tariffs, which he stressed have become a “significant financial burden” on the department.
“The cost of utilities alone is overwhelming, and it is affecting our day-to-day operations and our ability to serve the public with the urgency and professionalism they deserve”, the Regional Director disclosed.
He emphasised that while the department was playing a critical role in resolving landlord-tenant disputes as well as promoting housing harmony, the lack of basic resources are limiting its effectiveness and also tarnishing its public image.
“The Rent Control Department is committed to ensuring peaceful coexistence between landlords and tenants in the region,but this role cannot be played effectively without the necessary support”, he said adding that “the Rent Control Department deserves better, and so do the people we serve.”
Mr. Douglas McKenzie has called on government, civil society, and stakeholders in the housing sector to consider and provide immediate intervention of the refurbishment of Rent Control Department offices, particularly in the Ashanti Region, to restore “dignity and functionality” of the department.
From Oswald Pius Freiku, Kumasi
