Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has advocated for measures to solve land acquisition challenges, particularly in cities and metropolitan regions.
He said that the rural-urban migration and the resulting strain on housing in cities, notably Accra, had greatly increased the value of land, resulting in its cost in US dollars.
Mr. Kufuor stated this when Justice Alexander Osei Tutu, a Justice of the High Court of Ghana and The Gambia, visited him at his Accra apartment last Wednesday to invite him to the publication of his book, " Essential Themes in Land Law and Customary Law," which would take place on May 24, 2022.
The book provides a thorough overview of the key land law concepts inherent in the Land Act 2020 (Act 1036), as well as how they have been implemented and found in ordinary courts, for the benefit of attorneys and the general public.
Mr. Kufuor was also given copies of the book by Justice Osei Tutu.
Timely
In light of recent changes in the land sector, the former President remarked that the publication of the book was opportune.
Mr. Kufuor explained that the book will assist in addressing land issues such as the phenomena of land guards who took the law into their own hands and caused a lot of mayhem.
Strides
In recounting Justice Osei Tutu's legal career, the former President recalled his enrolment at the Bar in 2002, which occurred during his presidency, and complimented him on his achievements.
He praised the judge for taking time out of his hectic schedule to research and write to keep the public informed about the country's customary and land laws.
"I am glad and proud of the choice to issue this book to improve on our knowledge on an important topic," he added. "Studying land and ownership of property, whether it is leasehold or freehold, becomes extremely significant."
Appreciation
Mr. Kufuor was greeted warmly by Justice Osei Tutu, who conveyed his gratitude.
He cited the previous President's support as a constant source of inspiration.
In a later conversation with the media, Justice Osei Tutu argued that land was an essential notion that could not be abolished since it was crucial to the growth of any country.
"I've worked in the courts of the land for many years and have also served as a land court judge, and I've realized that with my wide expertise, there is a need to bring the matter to light so that my colleagues and the legal community may benefit from it," he said.