The Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS) hosted its 38th Valuation and Estate Surveying (VES) Conference in Ho, the capital of the Volta Region, under the theme, "Sustainable Surveying and Inclusive Governance: Mastering the Land Act 1036." The event gathered professionals in the surveying industry to discuss critical issues surrounding land management, governance, and the implementation of the Land Act 2020.

The conference, aimed at fostering professional growth, also focused on clarifying the Land Act implementation framework, identifying emerging challenges, seizing opportunities, and showcasing best practices in sustainable surveying.

Speaking with the media, the President of GhIS, Surv. Dr. Anthony Arko-Adjei emphasized the need for collaboration between the institution and the government in tackling pressing national issues. One of the key challenges, according to Dr. Arko-Adjei, is the illegal mining menace, known as galamsey. He stated that GhIS has both the manpower and the technological tools required to combat galamsey, but stressed that solving the problem requires a collective effort.

"It should be a collective responsibility for all of us," he asserted, highlighting that citizens play a crucial role in addressing the issue.

The chairman of the Valuation and Estate Surveying Division, Surv. Benjamin Armah Quaye (PhD), also spoke on the vital role that surveyors play in effective land management. He underlined the importance of their work in promoting sustainable land use, especially in the face of Ghana’s rapid urbanization and the need for responsible land governance.

In his keynote address, the Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yaw Letsa, challenged participants to ensure that the conference reflects actionable solutions for the successful implementation of the Land Act 2020. He called for the conference to go beyond discussing innovative ideas and instead focus on developing practical strategies to transform land governance in Ghana.

As the conference continues, the discussions and exchanges are expected to set the stage for meaningful advancements in land governance and surveying practices, contributing to Ghana's sustainable development goals.