President John Mahama has directed the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, together with the Lands Commission, to immediately conduct a comprehensive audit of all state lands allocated, leased, or sold, particularly 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 transaction identified would be reversed, with the lands duly recovered for the state in accordance with the law.

He added that the Sale of State Lands Committee had already commenced work and was expected to submit its findings soon.

The President also announced the lifting of the temporary ban on state land transactions. He emphasised that going forward, all allocations, leases, or sales must follow transparent procedures, utilise digital verification systems, and be subject to strict oversight mechanisms.

Mr Mahama expressed concern that only one woman currently serves on the reconstituted commission.

He called for stronger enforcement of legislation supporting the Affirmative Action Law, which requires every governing board or institution to allocate at least 30 per cent of positions to women, making gender inclusion mandatory.