The Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA) has held its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) with a call on the Government to partner and engage professional architects and other built-environment experts to guide sustainable housing and infrastructural development.

GIA President, Arc. Tony Asare, who made the call during the Institute’s 2025 AGM in Cape Coast on Thursday, 20th November 2025, emphasised that city planning is not just about erecting buildings but about creating vibrant, resilient, and inclusive spaces that foster growth, innovation, and human flourishing.

“As Ghana’s cities expand, the nation must harness technology, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration to tackle challenges related to sustainable development, climate resilience, and inclusive growth,” he noted.

Arc. Asare urged the Government to urgently address the shortage of professional architects within the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), cautioning that the absence of built-environment professionals is significantly contributing to chaotic and unplanned development across the country.

This year’s AGM was held under the theme: ‘From Castles to Our Future Cities: Lessons for Sustainable Development.’ The Guest Speaker was Sir Samuel Esson Jonah, Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast and Executive Chairman of Jonah Capital.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including a delegation from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts led by Mr Kofi Ohene Benning, Director of Finance and Administration; the Central Regional Minister, Aduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere; and representatives from the Oguaa Traditional Area on behalf of Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, Omanhene of Oguaa.

Government’s Commitment

The Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, Arc. Gizella Tetteh Agbotui reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to partnering with the GIA to advance sustainable housing and infrastructure. She emphasised that architects are central to shaping Ghana’s future cities.

“Architects are not just designers of buildings; they are designers of possibilities. Every sketch, every line, every dot has the potential to shape the future of our country,” she said.

She announced the Ministry’s readiness to deepen collaboration with the Institute in areas such as research, sustainable material use, design competitions, mentorship, capacity building, and strengthening contractor competencies.

For his part, the Central Regional Minister, Aduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere, assured the Institute that the Government is committed to increasing the number of architects within the MMDAs. He also encouraged greater use of local building materials, citing rising cement costs and the need for sustainable alternatives.

Mr Okyere highlighted the significance of Cape Coast’s iconic castles and forts, describing them as monuments that reflect centuries of durable architectural practice and offering valuable lessons for modern city planning.

Delivering the keynote address, Sir Jonah described the AGM theme as timely, noting that architecture is a profound reflection of a nation’s values. He urged architects to uphold integrity, resist societal ills such as corruption and galamsey, and ensure that Ghanaian architecture continues to reflect the nation’s culture and heritage.

“Do not be over-reliant on cement. Let us be innovative. Integrity builds; advocacy builds. You are custodians of standards, so do not lower your voices on issues affecting society,” he charged.

Call for Professional Excellence

Chairman of the function, Arc. Joseph E. Hayford, Principal Architect of MultiCAD Consulting, urged members to uphold the highest standards of professionalism. He encouraged deep deliberation at this year’s AGM to produce design and planning solutions that balance economic, social, and environmental needs.